#don't talk to me about their last name when jace's was to be changed when he succeed his mother since before he was conceived

[montyluvsjasper]

Baela was rightful heir to Driftmark and Daemon was self serving as hell for letting her life be put at risk by letting her be engaged to a bastard instead of fighting for that claim.

[igotanidea]

Retaliation: Jason Todd x plus-size!fem! reader

“You should not be staying here alone.”

“Hm?” Y/N was more focused on the chocolate pudding in front of her than the words her boyfriend shot her direction.

“You should not be staying here alone” he repeated rolling his eyes at her obliviousness.

“I’m not alone.” she licked the spoon before continuing “Alfred is here. Besides, I believe that Wayne manor has all sort of crazy technology protection measures, right? Some of them of my invention?”

“Still, I don’t like the idea…..”

“Come on, Jace.” She took a step forward, dessert in her hand. No matter what she was not willingly giving up on her piece of sweet “it’s not the first time and most definitely not the last. Why are you getting paranoid now?”

“Not sure…. Maybe it’s the instinct.”

“Maybe it’s the urge to avoid patrol with Grayson.” She smirked

“I’ll ditch him within ten seconds from the start of it and you know it. I think it’s rather the urge to not leave you alone with that chocolate thing.”

“Get the hell away from my pudding!” she yelled and rushed through the door to save herself from Jason’s greedy hands .

***

It wasn’t unusual for Y/N to stay at the manor for the night. Sometimes, she was accompanying Oracle in the batcave, some other working on her tech stuff, but still she was present there. This time however, she needed peace. Of course it was hard to focus on anything while Jason was out in the field, going full crazy with his guns and stuff, getting himself in danger, but Y/N had to force herself to try and get some rest. So instead of staying in the four walls, she decided to take a bit of fresh air. If you can even talk about fresh air in Gotham City. Still, grabbing her jacket and a pair of favorite fingerless gloves she sneaked a peek into the kitchen when Alfred was busy baking.

“Alfred.”

“Miss Y/n”  the butler turned around from the counter and smiled at her. “Going somewhere?”

“Just gotta clear my mind. A lot has been going on lately.”

“Surely it did. But please, don’t be long. I may need help with preparations.”

“The feast for our fearless protectors?” the girl smiled wildly, a chuckle escaping her mouth.

“that’s one way to describe them.” Alfred smiled back lightly

“ Are you preparing your cookies?”

“I do.”

“Then I will be back in a heartbeat. That’s the only way to ensure I will get at least one of it.”

***

She did not come back in a heartbeat. She did not come back in an hour and after that time Alfred became a bit worried. Trying to keep calm he went down to the batcave to consult with Barbara, who being herself, immediately took the action, searching long and wide for any sign of Y/n. The thing she found was far from good news.

***

"Who the hell is she?"

"I don't really know. She was in the manor so....."

"You idiot!" the first man smacked the first one on the head "Were you thinking at all?!"

"Relax, Denver, maybe we can actually benefit from it. If she was at the manor she probably has some value to Wayne or one of his sons...."

"Denver ?" Y/N couldn’t help a single laugh despite the bag on her head blocking her vision and the fact that situation was far from funny "Have you guys been watching Money Heist much?"

"You shut up or I'll help you" with a single harsh move her vision was back and she squinted trying to prevent eyes from the light.

"Let me guess" her gaze focused on the man in front of her. "If you're Denver, since you really act like the most impulsive one, than he "she motioned towards the man by the wall "must be Marseille, the intermediary between you two" . And you....." she looked at he one acting like the leader of the group "let me guess, you're Berlin? Or did you go straight for the name of Professor?"

"You talk a lot for someone who's just been captured....." the leader took a few steps forward "But you're good, I'll give you that. I go by Berlin, indeed. Now, let's see the pretty face Marseille got for us.... Oh, fuck....." the sudden change of tone and unexpected word got his accomplices on high alert.

"What happened boss?" the man who called himself Denver stuttered.

"Do you know who she is? Do you freaking now who that fucking one is? You've captured Red Hood's girl!"

"Wait.... How do you know....?" Y/N stuttered

"We got our ways, sunshine. Now, this is not going to be nice for you....." he smirked reaching for the knife resting on the nearby table and his wild face expression made Y/N shiver.

Oh, no.......

***

“Red?”  getting in touch with Jason to drop the news to him was far from the preferred way to spend the night, but Babs really had no choice in the matter if she wanted to save her friend. 

“Kinda busy here, Oracle.”

“this is rather important.”

“Everything is rather important. I can’t really do three things at once. You got four vigilantes running loose so why don’t you…..”

“It’s about Y/n.” she specified. Time was of the essence in this case so she was trying to use as little words as possible only to get Jason going. Of course that informing any other member of the family was an option, but eventually Red Hood would find out what happened and flatten everyone and everything for not letting him know first. After all, Y/N was his girlfriend. No one else’s. And it wasn;t like he was underlying it proudly at every time possible.

“What about her?” for a moment the only sound echoing through the comms were bangs and some screams, clear sign that a single mention of her name and possibility of her being in danger got his mind spinning and his action more violent.  And then Jason came back “What happened?” 

***

It was getting harder and harder to breathe.

The guys who captured her were surely not the ones to joke around and make empty promises. Once they realized who she was they tried everything to get her to talk and spill Red’s secret identity. Not that she was going to talk of course, but the price to pay for silence was extremely hard.

“Damn it, you bitch!” Denver yelled and punch her straight in the face, hitting an eye and she could feel the bruise forming. “You better talk right now or….”

“Denver.” Berlin spoke calmly “Please, the girl is our guest. Is that how you treat your guests? I don’t really think so. “ he took a step towards her, grabbing her swollen face in his hand and making her look at him “it would be a shame to mutilate such pretty face…..”

“Screw you” she spat but it only made the man laugh

“You see, gentlemen. This little one has to be taught some manners. It’s a shame Joker is not in town tonight, he would show you the real meaning behind the words “big mouth.”

“Screw you ….” She repeated, but this time it came out weaker. Maybe it was because of the fact that for whatever seemed like an eternity now she was tortured with the use of every tool and every method possible. She was tied to the chair, her hands bind behind her, wrist swollen and purple because of the cut of the blood supply. She had sprained ankle which hurt like hell and many deep cuts on her legs which allowed the blood to drip freely making her feel hazy and dizzy. She also had countless bruises all over her arms and possibly dislocated shoulder. And now, also a black eye. Her head was hanging low and she was losing all the motivation to fight, not that she was going to show it to them.

“You are so stubborn, aren’t you? why don’t we start again then?” Berlin reached towards the table and grabbed something that looked like  giant nail clippers “Step by step. First, you tell me who is the Red Hood. Then I’d like to know about the Nightwing. And last, but not least, Batman.”

“There is clearly something wrong with your priorities” the sudden hit in the chest made her cough and much to her terror she saw some blood coming from her mouth.

“every time you refuse to cooperate I will pull one of your fingernails.” Berlin moved closer to the chair and twisted her arm painfully, placing her finger between the claws.

“He’s going to get to you, you know…..” she whispered “he’ll find you and then…..”

“Then what, sunshine?” Marseille, silent until now joint the discussion pulling her head back and squeezing her already hurt neck, putting another knife to it. “You still think he can save you? You watch to many movies….”

“What good will it come to you if you kill me?” she panted, her heartrate picking up significantly “you still won’t know who he is underneath that mask. You’ll be left in the dark, so what is the whole point of….Auch!”

“You still don’t get it, doll, do you? We’re just sending a signal here. You see, your loverboy interfered with some of our business and let me tell you, there were consequences for us. Not the kind you like. So this…” Marseille motioned towards her broken figure “is just a collateral damage. You are a collateral damage. A lucky coincidence we captured you since it was not planned. But it will get to Hood. And when he comes….” He laughed viciously “we’ll be ready.”

“Screw…..”

“You said that before and it got you nowhere, sweetheart. Again then. Who is Red Hood?” once again the clipper got really close to her finger and Y/N gulped loudly.

“Why don’t you just ask the object of your interest?” familiar, yet modulated by the helm voice reverberated from the right upper corner of the barn the men were keeping Y/n.

“Look who decided to drop by.” Berlin smiled wildly, especially when he noticed the gun pointed at him. “now, now, Red. We all know you are way past your killing days, don’t you.”

“I can make exceptions” Jason’s gaze travelled towards Y/N who was now almost unconscious on that fucking chair, blooded, bruised, exhausted, tortured.  And still with Marseille’s knife at her throat. Jason had to be extremely careful now.

“You want to add to your girl’s trauma? Poor thing has been through so much….. Believe me, we have very vivid imagination when it comes to retaliation.”

“I can assure you, it could never compare to mine.” Jason took a step forward, now almost having the gun at Berlin’s forehead “Easy, Hood. One wrong move and Marseille’s going to cut her throat without any inhibitions. “

“What do you want?” Jay’s voice broke slightly

“Take off your mask and expose yourself or… you know” Berlin made a very unambiguous gesture. “You can’t win this round, you know it. There are three against one, even you are not that good.”

“I’ve dealt with worse….”

“But not when the life of someone you love was at stake.”

Jason hesitated. He could easily take all of the men down, but could he be fast enough to save her as well? He knew Marseille, that one was a devil in disguise, the most unpredictable opponent, never acting like he was expected to. Once again, his gaze travelled to Y/N and his heart clenched. For a while her consciousness was back and he looked him straight into the eyes, her own filled with tears, fear and so much pain. She shook her head slowly, silent begging for him to not surrender for her sake, but Marseille pulled her by the hair and she stopped. It was the moment Jason could not take it anymore. His brain stopped functioning. Let them know who he was. Let them. If it means that Y/n would be kept safe he would go for it.

“Fine….” He muttered reaching up to remove the helmet.

“No! No, don’t, please, please!” Y/n yelled and the second that voice came from her things happened too fast to comprehend.

Nightwing and Red Robin came out of nowhere, heading straight towards Marseille who immediately yanked Y/N up using her as a shield.  At the same time Robin went at Berlin from behind, tackling him to the ground. In such circumstances Jason fired a single shot into Denver’s leg eliminating him from the equation for good. However, the other two were not so easy to give up. Berlin got up from the floor and attacked Jason, showing unusual fighting skills, which were a bit surprising yet still not sufficient to beat Red Hood. It only took a couple seconds when he was back on the ground being beaten to death by the anti-hero.

“You hurt her!” he yelled “You should die for that!” at this point Jason did not care where his punches and kicks landed. In all his blind fury, the only image behind his eyes was Y/N, broken, scared, injured…. This only fueled his rage and made the motions more violent and powerful. He was so oblivious of what was happening that it took Dick’s interference to bring him back to reality.

“Hood!” he yelled

“Fuck off, Grayson!”

“She needs you!”

Those three little words worked like a magic spell. Jason immediately dropped unconscious Berlin, whose face was now more like a bloody pulp than anything else and looked about. Marseille was down as well, now getting tied up by Damian and a few meters further he noticed Y/N’s limp body, her head resting on Tim’s lap. The boy stood up abruptly, pushing away Dick and fall on his knees next to her, slowly and gently getting her in his arms, careful not to cause any more damage. It only took him a second to notice the deep cut on her throat and a pool of blood. Her blood.

“y/n…. no, no, no, no….” Without hesitation he took the cape Tim handed him and was trying to use it to block the bleeding “Baby, please, stay with me….Please” he sobbed noticing her breath getting more and more shallow.

“Jay….” She stuttered reaching for his cheek and cupping it gently, her hand so limp when he put his own bigger over hers. Limp and cold and pale just like her whole face.

“hush, baby. Save your strength. Just hold on to me, all right? It’s gonna be all right. You’re gonna be alright. Just don’t let go….” His grip on her grew stronger and stronger while she was becoming more pale and weak and started coughing.

“I’m….. I’m sorry…. Jay…..” she closed her eyes and took a desperate breath “I…. I love you…..”

“No, no, no, no! Don’t you dare dying on me! You hear me? I forbid you!” his hands were stained with her blood. A stain he knew he could never clean, no matter how hard he would try.

“Bossing me…. around…. Huh?”

‘I know you like it when I do that…” he brushed a strand of hair from her bloody face and rested his forehead on hers, closing eyes in silent desperation. Don't leave me, don't leave me, don't leave me.

“And yet, I never….. “ she coughed “never listened”

“Make an exception this time” he pleaded, tears falling from his eyes. “I can’t lose you…. Y/N, baby…..”

“Jay…” she whispered, eyes blurry, losing contact with reality. All the light that her gaze usually held slowly dying with each faint heartbeat. If only he could ......

"Jason...."

“I told you to fuck off Dickhead!” he spat at his brother, not caring what the oldest had to say at the moment.

“The help is here” Dick motioned towards the paramedics rushing through the warehouse door. “Come on, let them work, it’s not too late….. Jay?”

 The view of big, scary Red Hood kneeling next to the girl who was the love of his live, holding her close to his chest, while sobbing, rocking back and forth and repeatedly kissing her forehead muttering some incoherent words was heartbreaking for everyone. And there was nothing either of the boys could do.

“Miracles like this don’t happen…..” Jason sobbed while Y/N’s body was practically ripped off his embrace by paramedics and put into the ambulance, while his brothers held him back, preventing from beating the medics. “I lost her….. I lost Y/n…..”

Possible part 2 - let me know if you want another part of angst, mourning and heartache.

@jasontoddsthickbabe

[biwitchenergyz]

When Dragons Dance

Content Warning: Adult Language, Mentions of Drug Use, and hints towards grooming. I do not own any of the characters or songs used in this story, but I hope you enjoy and if you do, please let me know!

Chapter 3: Meet me backstage.

Cregan is very quiet about the inside man who helped him get backstage access. He dismisses all your questions by simply saying that the guy is an old friend and ending it there. For the most part, you don’t care who the mystery man is. Tonight’s concert changed your whole opinion of the band and meeting them will be a unique experience that not many have. Silly, you think, I’m acting as if I don't have my own fan club. Obviously, having a fan club as an actress is completely different from a band. Although you love your fans it is not as easy to meet or be seen by them in person as it would be if you still did concerts. No, you deliberate, I could never go back to singing. The thought of your past makes your breath come out shallow, but you focus on Cregan's touch and push your thoughts to the back of your mind. Cregan smiles at all the guards you pass, keeping his hand on your lower back as he moves you through the stage crew and to the band’s lounge. Before he opens the door, you rush to smooth down your hair and readjust your light blue sundress, courtesy of your PR manager.

The door opens and you squint at the bright light that gleams from within the room. All the band members are there as well as a few girls that you recognize to be Helaena Targaryen and the Velaryon twins. Baela and Rhaena are in a deep conversation with Jacereys, they look like vultures circling the flustered Jace. “Cregan Stark! Come in dude!” Daeron is the first to notice your boyfriend as he moves you into the room with a gentle nudge. There are plenty of colorful beanbag chairs, a long pitch-black sectional sofa rests in the center of the room and a coffee table is placed before it. The white walls are decorated with certificates, plaques, and awards all won by the band or the band members. Some of the awards aren't for music. You notice a charitable doner certificate in Aegon's name and a high school diploma with Luke's name written in full. Aegon is resting on the sofa with his body spread out and taking up most of the space except for the sofa arm Helaena sits on as she presses glittery bug stickers onto Aegon’s face. Aemond sits at the farthest end, pressed tightly to the corner, with a book in his hand, to your surprise he is reading The Taming of the Shrew by Shakespear. Daeron waves Cregan over to him, “Guy’s this is THE Cregan Stark!” Luke is the first to rush over after that. He practically tackles Cregan with several questions, each more outrageous than the last. Jace seems to notice his brother's excitement and excuses himself from the conversation to save Cregan from Luke. Cregan stumbles over his words as soon as Jace greets him, which makes for an amusing scene. The two men talk with a familiarity that you would not expect from a first meeting, but you can tell they are comfortable, if not a little flustered, in each other's presence. Baela and Rhaena seem to have a sharp gaze on Jace and for a moment you think they may come over and start teasing him but instead, Rhaena grabs Luke with a gentle tug in her direction. You notice Baela's eyes on you, and you smile when you face her. Baela Velaryon is breathtaking. With her dark skin and bright Valyrian eyes that hold your gaze with a curious gleam. Instead of approaching you, Baela turns her attention back to Luke and Rhaena.

So far, you have gone unnoticed, excluding Baela, until you catch the eye of Aemond. Still donning his trademark sunglasses, he sets down his book as he calls out your full name. He continues, “You played in Conqueror with Jace’s mom, right?” You nod in response, slightly confused that Aemond would refer to his half-sister as just Jace’s mom and not as his own family. Aemond stands with a small smirk appearing on his face. “We all loved the show. Aegon and Hel cried when Rhaenys died.”  You also cried when you finally watched Conqueror. It was your first big show and you played alongside Rhaenyra Targaryen. She played Queen Visenya while you played her wild younger sister, Queen Rhaenys. It was an amazing experience that brought you fame and began a new love for Targaryen history in the entertainment industry and your personal life. "Thank You. It was a great experience!" He hums in response, and you feel the need to fill the silence, so you continue, "The best part was learning about Targaryen history. I still find myself reading about it." Aemond's gaze doesn't make you feel insecure, instead, it makes you feel noticed. Even though you can feel a slight heat rising to your face, Aemond's attention is a nice change from just being unnoticed. "We were all made to study Targaryen history since we were old enough to read. But it is impressive that you took the time to study a history that is so often overlooked in the face of all the new Targaryen...drama." His voice comes out deep and smooth, making you wish he had sung on stage more. You thank him for his admiration, but it seems his remarks capture his sibling's attention, and, in an instant, Helaena is stepping over her older brother to meet you. She extends a graceful hand.

You saw pictures of her once a long time ago but now that she stands in front of you it is like looking at an angel. Her hair is cut to her shoulders, platinum white with the curls of her mother's side. Helaena shares the same violet eyes as all her siblings but hers shine more. You take her hand gently and marvel at its softness. “We were addicted to Conqueror. It’s the first time we saw you act but you were so good! We watched The Six Wives of Maegor too, I loved it. I can't wait for the new season.” Helaena has a gentle voice; you wonder why she hasn't pursued singing. “Thank you so much! That means a lot to me! I read your book. The first one, Divine Bugs: A Study of Bugs in Religious Imagery. I still read it every time I see a dragonfly!” The silence that follows is deafening. You worry that you have said the wrong thing but then Helaena practically jumps in place. “You read Divine Bugs? I published that right after I got my bachelor's! Not Even my brothers read that one.” Her grip on you tightens but it is a comfortable hold. “We did read it. It just confused those two.” Aemond argues, gesturing towards his other two brothers as Aegon finally sits up.

The older Targaryen brother is exhausted, barely having the strength to sit up. Gently he rubs his eyes, somehow managing to bypass the bug stickers Helaena has put on him. When his eyes finally adjust, he looks directly at you and nearly falls from the couch as he squeals your name. This catches everyone's attention. “Oh! I forgot. Everyone, this is my girlfriend!” Cregan sheepishly introduces you. You laugh at his embarrassment, clearly not wanting Jace to know he is ‘taken’. Aegon is completely bewildered. “Queen Rhaenys came to my show?” He exclaims, clearly joking. “Queen Rhaenys loved your show.” You add, smiling as he too returns a bright smile. “You have stickers on your face.” Aemond huffs, breaking the moment. Aegon turns his back to you as he rips the ladybugs and dragonflies from his face all while whining about Helaena, who is doubled over laughing. Aegon finally makes his way to you and his siblings. “I never thought I would meet the Queen herself!” Aegon smirks as he stands tall above you. “Well, the Queen goes wherever stupid Stark goes, so…” You joke, receiving a shout from Cregan. “Not my name babe!” Aegon ignores Cregan, not even acknowledging his presence in the room. “Damn, the first time I meet you and you're here with your boyfriend! What a shame.” He raises his eyebrow as if he is challenging you but his smug look doesn't last long as Aemond elbows him in the ribs. Aegon folds over but as soon as you start laughing he straightens his back and brings the fight back to Aemond. They both wrestle with each other as though they were little kids trying to impress the most popular girl at the playground. Helaena watches the scene with just as much amusement as you but when the two start cursing at each other she shakes her head.“Apologies. Our brother is a miserable flirt.” Helaena apologizes as she turns from the scene both of her brothers have caused. “It’s ok. I am too.”

[crownedtargaryen]

cruel summer. - modern!jacaerys

Part 1 ; Part 2 ; Part 3 ; Part 4 ; Part 5 pairing: modern!jacaerys x modern!stark reader (a/n): this part includes sensitive topics. please, PLEASE read the trigger warnings below. as a SA victim, this is not to romanticize such things. TW: attempted rape, blood, sexual assault rating: NSFW 18+, this chapter holds sensitive. prns: she/her all notes are appreciated. words: 1.7k tag list: @hopelesswritergall @twizzy123 @howyouloveyourdragon @daenerysapologist @fairysluna

It's been a few hours since my encounter with Jacaerys and I'll admit, I've missed those corny jokes. He's annoying at the moment, but I seek his company now. I walk to my brother, Cregan, who prepares dinner for me and my siblings.

"Hey Creg," I start sweetly, seeing him look at me and smirk slightly. He knows I'm about to ask for something, he always knows. I move up next to him and look at the meal he's preparing. "Looks good!" "Stop tryna' sweet talk me, what's up?" Cregan says, cocking a brow at me. I feel anxious, knowing he might say no.

"You know Jacaerys Velaryon…" I start, seeing his expression contort into something I can't place. He nods in response, increasing my anxiety. "Could I have his number?"

He pauses for a moment, considering, then sighs heavily. "Why? You don't like him, do you?" He takes the food off the stove, leaning his side against the counter and crossing his arms. "You've gotta be careful about guys like that. I know him better than anyone. He has girls flocking to him by the second. He'll play you like a pawn in some filthy game. I don't want that for you." He grabs his phone despite his words, letting me consider as he finds Jace's contact. Cregan and Jace are close friends from being on the hockey team together, so I trust his judgment. Being co-captains develops a bond that might let you discover some darker sides of each other.

"Trust me, I have no interest in him. It has to do with tutoring," I lied through my teeth, smiling uncomfortably. Now, it was a half-truth! I don't have an interest, but I also want to get closer. It has nothing to do with tutoring him since he won't give me the chance to teach him a damn thing. Cretan examines my expression before handing me his phone with Jace's contact open. I can't help but smile at the contact photo.

It was when Jace let his hair grow out, his curled hair down his shoulders. He posed all pretty with his leg up and batting his eyes with his jersey on. I quickly enter the contact and hand Cregan back his phone, moving over and giving him a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Thanks, Creg. It means a lot. You're the best!" I affirm, patting his shoulder as he rolls his eyes and chuckles. I scramble off, entering my bedroom and texting Jace.

(Y/N): hey it's (Y/N)! I was wondering if you were still up for a hangout? :)

I was shocked by the response time. My phone vibrates in a matter of minutes.

Jacaerys 😐: Yeah. I have a party I was invited to. Sound good?

(Y/N): who's gonna be there?

Jacaerys 😐: Idfk it's a high school party, do you really expect me to know everyone who's showing up?

Well damn, okay asshole.

(Y/N): yes, I do. I expect a list of first names, last names, parents' phone numbers, and their ages before you pick me up 🤨

Jacaerys 😐: Are you going or not.

(Y/N): what time?

I try to figure out when we'll be heading out, mostly because I want to look presentable. Maybe I'll find someone at the party who is interested in me, who knows? He told me he could pick me up in an hour or so. The sun has already set, so I can only assume we'll be out for a while. I text him the okay and get myself ready for a night that changed my whole perspective on Jacaerys Velaryon.

He pulls up across the street in my neighbor's parking lot, not wanting to seem obvious. I'd never snuck out before, nor planned to. Surely my brother wouldn't mind, he parties all the time! But maybe he'd be hesitant to let me spend time with his best friend. He almost didn't give me his number. I could only imagine how he'd react if I told him I was actively seeking to hang out with him.

Without a second thought, I slip out of my window, closing it and glancing at Cregan's window. The light is off, I can only assume he called it a night early. I rush across the street, trying to keep my head ducked in case he looks out his window and sees me. I quickly open the car door, slip into the passenger side, and slam the door. Jace looks at me in surprise for a moment before bursting into laughter at my anxiety.

"Jeez, you're terrible at this!" He playfully nudged me, causing me to roll my eyes as he pulled out of the driveway and headed toward the party. I check my phone, my leg bouncing as I fumble loosely with my shirt. I feel his eyes glancing at me, worsening my frustrations. "You look beautiful," he suddenly says. I look at him, my brows furrowed. Looking ahead, he has a cheeky grin on his face. "I mean, seriously. You'll have guys all over you."

"Speaking from what you wanna do?" I suddenly say, trying to distract myself from my overwhelming fear that Cregan will message me at any moment. I notice his hesitance to answer and the growing color on his cheeks that I can barely see in the limited light. "Maybe? So what?" He replied, making me laugh. I didn't take him seriously. I know he wouldn't want that. Would he? I sigh heavily and comfortable silence falls over us. Jace turns on a song to fill the quiet space.

We park on the side of the street, music muffled from behind closed windows and doors. It's a Lannister party. I look up at the looming building. I swear it's four floors high. Jace gently takes my hand and walks me inside, obviously impatient and ready to have fun. A few people cheer as Jace walks in. He laughs and greets them, letting go of my hand and leaving me alone. I can't help but feel disappointed watching him talk to different girls and his friends. I sigh and head to the drink table, downing two shots.

"Woah there, Tiger, watch yourself," a voice calls out, revealing Aegon Targaryen. I hadn't interacted with him since middle school when he was head over heels for me. He'd cheated on me, but I hadn't held a grudge. It was middle school. We were all imbeciles unaware of romance. He seems to be getting there, his words only slightly slurred as he smiles flirtatiously at me. I return the smile, except it's awkward. He doesn't seem to notice, offering me a drink which I take. "Aegon! How've you been?" I ask, trying to make a polite conversation. He sighs heavily, brows raised, then chugging his drink with a small laugh. That told me everything, and I felt pity for him. His home life has always been challenging, so I give him the benefit of the doubt in most situations.

I feel myself growing tipsy as Aegon continues idle chitchat. Mostly conversed about life and relationships, and even asked me if I'm interested in smoking some weed with him. I politely decline, scanning the crowd for Jace. The more I drink, the more I feel myself becoming scatterbrained and drunk, and the faces of those around me look all the same. The blaring music triggers a headache and I continue to drink.

Then, before I know it, Aegon has his hand in mine and says words I can't understand. I giggle at him, assuming he said something playful. Then, his hands are on my waist and pulling me close. I grow uncomfortable as he grinds his hips to mine. I push him away a little, but he grows aggressive and starts gripping me tighter. He whispers words that will stick with me forever.

"You love me, admit it. There's nothing I want more than you. You're mine tonight."

I feel sick, tears coming to my eyes. I plead with him to stop, but my words are slurred and incoherent. No one around us pays attention as he pulls me toward the bedroom.

Everything happens so fast. One moment I was wrestling with Aegon, crying and trying to beg him to let me go, the next he was on the floor and Jace was in front of me with his hands clenched into his fists.

I watch Aemond emerge from the crowd, looking at his brother's bloodied nose and bruising face on the floor. It blurs together. I watch as they crash to the floor, glass shattering. I see blood, a broken bottle in Jace's hand, and then Aemond bruised and bloodied on the floor. Jace looks at me, his gaze softening as he grabs my hand and pulls me out. He makes sure I have everything. I look at his face, his nose bleeding and cuts on his arms and hands. I feel my sickness surface, pulling me from Jace and vomiting in the front yard. I hear him say something, but I can't hear him over my vomiting. He pulls my hair back, waits until I finish, and then helps me to his car.

I have thrown up on my shirt. I can smell it. Jace gets in the front seat as I lay in the back, whining and curling up. He watches me through the rearview mirror.

We drive for only a bit before he stops his car. I look out the window, seeing we're at a nearby gas station. He turns around, looking at me then unzipping his backpack that's rested on the floorboard of the back seat.

"Jace..?" I whine, and he softly shushes me. I look at his bloodied hands, my eyebrows furrowed.

"You're okay, you're safe. I'm here," he whispers, pulling out his hockey jersey. He hands it to me. "Can you change into this for me?" I stare at him, shaken up and still scared from the party ordeal. "I won't look." He turns away, covering his eyes. Hesitantly, I strip off my shirt and throw his jersey over my torso. I softly murmur his name, and he looks back at me, smiling lovingly at me. The blood on his face has dried up, and I feel guilty. I feel responsible.

"Jace I'm sorry," I slur out, the brunette reaching for my hand and holding it tightly.

"You have no reason to apologize. Let's go back to your house and clean you up. Okay?" He whispers, making my heart clench as tears fall down my cheeks. "I won't let anything happen to you, ever. You're safe."

[amberthefantasy]

and the dragons danced?

chapter six: RHAENYRA III

The next morning was similar to the previous one. But this time Aegon was talking more. He joked with Jace over whether or not Vermax would eventually outstrip Sunfyre in speed. "Of course he will! Vermax is from one of Syrax's clutches and she's one of the fastest dragons!" Jace proudly proclaimed.

"Well, Sunfyre is from the same sire and dam as Meleys, and she is the fastest!" Aegon countered.

"You're both wrong—" Baela cut in— "Moondancer will be the fastest, she's Meleys' hatchling." Both boys turned on her and the three devolved into arguing. Rhaenyra glanced at Daemon who was watching them with a fondness on his face that he reserved for family. 

"Mother?" Luke's voice pulled her from her reverie, "which dragon do you think will be the fastest?"

"Oh well... none of them will ever beat Syrax of—"

"MOTHER!" Jace, Luke and Joffrey complained.

Rhaenyra laughed, "I don't know as much about dragons as Daemon, ask him."

All eyes turned to Daemon who leant back in his seat to ponder. "Well, based solely on their dam and sire... Moondancer is the most likely."

Baela smirked triumphantly but her father wasn't done. "However, I believe that Vermax and Sunfyre are both better built for speed... and if I had to guess... Sunfyre."

Aegon let out a loud cheer and punched Jace on the shoulder. Jace and Baela both rolled their eyes. "Although..." Daemon began again, his voice was distant now as he got lost in thoughts of dragons, "Tyraxes and Stormcloud are still so small it's hard to tell what they're builds will be... I have never seen the one that Daeron hatched—"

"—Tessarion," Aegon put in, his voice relaxed again.

"Yes... those three may change it."

"Or Shrykos and Morghul," Aegon said. The table turned to him confused and Aegon smiled softly. "My childrens," he explained.

"Their eggs hatched?" Rhaena asked.

"Yes," Aegon smiled proudly, it was the first time since his arrival he'd mentioned the small children he'd had with Helaena and Rhaenyra leant in slightly, as if she would hear even more simply by being closer. "Jaehaera's hatched when they were 2, Jaehaerys' a year later."

"They named them Shrykos and Morghul." Luke said, it wasn't a question but Aegon nodded anyway.

"Well... Helaena named them, the twins just giggled," his eyes grew slightly wistful at the memory.

"You didn't help?" Rhaenyra asked.

Her brother's eyes drifted to her and something like guilt flashed in them, "no... I was drunk." He confessed. There was silence at the table for a moment, before Joffrey leant forward. "I've never been drunk, Mother won't let me."

Aegon smiled softly at his nephew, "good. It... isn't a good thing."

Rhaenyra smiled softly. She'd heard rumours that her eldest brother was a wastrel drunk. But, though they'd only really been speaking for the last day, she could see that he wasn't the happiest with himself. A glance at Daemon told her that her husband had deduced the same. He used to drink when he was unhappy too. If Aegon really was always drunk... was he always unhappy? The thought almost made her wince.

The cry of a dragon echoed through the keep. "Meleys?" Rhaena whispered.

"Go to your lessons children," Daemon waved them off, "Ser Lorent, go receive the Princess Rhaenys and bring her to the Painted Table." The Kingsguard bowed and left. The children- was Aegon still a child? He was nine-and-ten, but he acted like a child- the children all stood and left the room, though Jace, Luke, Baela and Rhaena didn't look pleased to be leaving.

"Let us go see what our cousin needs." Rhaenyra grimaced.

--

Daemon was standing by the fire, obviously trying to prepare himself for the news they knew was coming. Rhaenyra ran her hand over her bump, gods, for the day since Aegon's arrival she had tried to put the reason for his sudden arrival out of her mind. He thought their father was dead, and now Rhaenys was here probably with confirmation of that fact. 

"The Princess Rhaenys Targaryen," Ser Lorent announced as they entered the room.

"Thank you, Ser Lorent," Rhaenyra said, the knight bowed and walked to the side of the room. Rhaenys was wearing her riding armour, deep red and black scales that made her look every bit the Targaryen princess she was. "Princess Rhaenys, might we hope for news of Lord Corlys' recovering?"

"Viserys is dead." Rhaenys said, her voice void of emotion.

Rhaenyra placed her hand over her stomach and felt the pain that she'd pushed aside for the past day resurface. It was true. Her father was dead. "I grieve this loss with you, Rhaenyra," Rhaenys continued, her voice softening. "My cousin, your father... possessed a kind heart." Rhaenyra nodded. Daemon walked closer and placed a hand on her back in silent comfort. Rhaenys hesitated for a moment and then walked forward. "There is more."

Rhaenyra sucked in a breath and nodded for Rhaenys to continue. "They have attempted to crown Aegon as his successor, but the boy is missing."

Daemon scoffed. Rhaenys' eyes cut to him, "I heard rumours..."

"True." Daemon said, "my nephew is here."

Rhaenys raised a brow, "where is he?"

"With the other children, studying I assume," Rhaenyra breathed out. 

"What did the queen demand of you?" Daemon asked, switching the conversation back to the happenings of Kings Landing. 

"She demanded I bend the knee and swear to Aegon," Rhaenys explained, "though he was not present in the city so I wonder how I would do that."

"How did you escape?" Rhaenyra asked.

"Ser Erryk Cargyll, he led me through Maegor's tunnels and out into the city," the Lady of Driftmark smiled slightly, "I was able to reach Meleys and fly away."

"Thank you," Rhaenyra said, her voice still a soft whisper, "for coming to inform us."

Rhaenys bowed her head slightly, "of course, Princess."

Rhaenyra straightened slightly and removed her hand from her stomach, "Ser Lorent, please retrieve my children and my brother." Ser Lorent bowed and left to find the young ones. "Rhaenys, please stay here for the day, rest."

"Of course," Rhaenys nodded. One of the Dragonstone guards stepped forward to lead Rhaenys to a spareroom to bathe and change. Rhaenyra smiled at her cousin as she left.

Rhaenyra turned to Daemon. Her husband was standing straight-backed beside her, but Rhaenyra could see that the confirmation of his brother's death had pained him just as much as it had her. "Come my love, we have plans to make."

--

"Mother?" Jace's voice brought Rhaenyra out of the pained reverie she and Daemon had fallen into after Rhaenys left.

Rhaenyra turned her eyes to her children, and Aegon, as they entered the room. "King Viserys is dead."

"Viserys?" Luke asked, his voice shaking slightly, "it's true?" Rhaenyra nodded in conformation and she saw Luke lean into Rhaena slightly in comfort. 

Baela had gripped Jace's hand and, though the two older siblings remained unmoving, Rhaenyra saw the pain in their eyes. Aegon though, had the biggest reaction. His hand flew to his chest and her brother let out a pained whimper. He had already thought their father was dead, but the confirmation seemed to pain him just as it had her and Daemon.

"Rhaenys is here," Daemon said after a moment of silence.

All eyes snapped to him. "Grandmother?" Rhaena asked.

"Yes, she should be bathing after her flight but I'm sure she'll wish you see you after." Baela and Rhaena smiled at each other. "First," Daemon said, "plans."

Jace let Baela's hand go and stepped forward. "What is the current plan?"

"Since the only person able to sufficiently challenge my claim has sworn himself to me directly," Rhaenyra began, smiling slightly at Aegon who blushed, "then I believe it shall be slightly simpler to claim the throne."

"Yes," Daemon agreed, "and given the amount of dragons we possess over them, even simpler."

"So what? We fly directly to the Red Keep and just take the throne with force?" Baela asked.

"Not quite," Rhaenyra shook her head, "Alicent is still the Dowager Queen. Helaena and Aemond are our kin--"

"Don't forget the twins and Maelor!" Luke cut in.

"Yes, thank you Luke," Rhaenyra said with a chiding look to her second child. He blushed a little, sometimes Luke reminded her that he was still a boy and not the mature man he and Jace often presented themselves as here on Dragonstone. "As I was saying, we have family in the keep and though I'm sure Daemon would want nothing more than to put Ser Otto's head on a spike," her husband didn't even try to look chagrined, "I would rather not start my reign with bloodshed."

"Then we just fly there and take it without blood," Aegon said. Everyone looked towards him and he looked a little uncomfortable before continuing. "Like Rhaenyra said, I'm here. They can't exactly challenge for the throne with Helaena. No one would fight a war just to put a different queen on the throne. Aemond and Daeron are my younger brothers. If I don't want the throne, they couldn't challenge for it either."

"So..." Jace looked thoughtful, "we just take it and there is no one to even try and challenge for it..."

"What about Daeron?" Baela said, "he isn't in Kings Landing. He's in Oldtown and he is in danger if the Hightower's scheme for the throne."

Aegon's eyes widened slightly at the thought of their youngest brother being in danger. "I'll go get him," he said. 

"What?" Daemon hissed.

Aegon gulped but explained, "I'll fly to Oldtown and bring Daeron and Tessarion here before we fly to King's Landing."

"It would make a greater statement," Daemon mused, "two sons of Viserys flying in with their sister..."

Rhaenyra pursed her lips. "Jace will go with you," she said after a moment. Both boys looked at her in confusion. "I don't want anyone flying that far without someone else with them, not now. And especially not to Oldtown."

"Okay," Jace nodded, always willing to help in whatever way he could. Aegon looked slightly annoyed at not being trusted to go alone but nodded as well.

"That would give us... eight dragons with riders and one hatchling too small to ride but large enough to breathe fire. To their two dragons and two hatchlings," Daemon said, "good odds."

"One of their dragons is Vhagar, remember," Rhaenyra responded, "but hopefully it won't matter how many dragons we have."

"Yes... hopefully," Aegon muttered. As the small meeting separated, with the four children going to visit their grandmother and Daemon to plan with the guards, the two siblings locked eyes. Rhaenyra and Aegon didn't say a word to each other, but their eyes shimmered with the shared pain of grief.

atdd masterlist / post masterlist

[wowowwild]

Clay and his best friend spend a long weekend in seventh grade camping in the mountains. Some things change, and some things never will.

This is the bag-verse (a regretfully non aa6 inclusive au) Apollo name origin story. He starts off the fic as going by Jason so that's what that's about.

I had the concept for this already but decided to actually write it in time for Claypollo day! (This is way pre-ship but bag-verse is going to include plenty of claypollo in the pollycule.)

Seventh grade was a breeze for Clay Terran. The only problem he had was that his last period was not shared with his best friend, so he’d have to find him everyday after school. Luckily, that wasn’t hard since he was always wearing bright red and easy to pick from the crowd.

"Jason! Jace, did you see what they're doing in Miss Trawley's class?" "With the bugs?" "Yeah! I heard Jessica puked on sight." "That sucks. They probably should have asked if anyone had any aversions beforehand." Clay laughed. "Totally. I'll bet her parents will get her excused from the rest of it, so she'll probably be in our class during science. You know what that means…" he wiggled his eyebrows. "No?" "Dude, she totally has a crush on you!" "She doesn't know me, how can she have a crush on me?" "She thinks you're cute, duh." "I'm not cute…" he grumbled. "You're not really into girls, are you?" "I don't know. I don't have time." "And what are you so busy doing?" "I have to catch up on Case Closed and do the history report." "In that order?" "... Maybe." "Such a slacker." "It's not due for another two weeks! And I know you won't start yours until 3 days before." "History just doesn't do it for me like it does for you. I'm a science guy." "Maybe you can show Jessica how much of a science guy you are when she joins us." "Maybe I will. I think I'd rather get Freddy's attention." "You're too much." "I think I'm the perfect amount." "You would." "You're still coming with my dad and I tomorrow, right?" "Yeah. My moms' said it was cool." "You're going to love it! You can see the stars so well up there. You'd never know from down here that there are so many. We're going to bring the telescope, too. I'll show you Ceres." "And you're sure there won't be other people there?" "There never have been. It's our secret spot." "Good. I know you guys don't care but…" "But you care. And that's fine." "Yeah."

Clay did not envy his friend. Being born all wrong had to be hard.

-----------

It was a long weekend, and long weekends for Clay were spent in the mountains with his dad. His mom had loved the views and being in nature, so they made sure to keep going. It’s what she would have wanted.

They picked Jason up early so they’d have plenty of time to hike to their spot and set up.

“Hey, kiddo. You’re going by Jason, now, right?” “Yes.” “Sounds good. Alex didn’t really suit you anyway.” “That’s what I thought, too.” “Got everything you need?” “I do.” “Great, I think Clay fell asleep, but you can wake him up when you get in.” “Thank you, Mr. Teran.” “No problem, kiddo.”

When Jason hopped in the car he decided not to disturb Clay. He knew his friend wouldn’t mind, but he had some scenic thinking to do first. Once they were on the road it didn’t take long for Clay to wake up with a yawn and a stretch.

“Hey, Jace. Are you ready for the best long weekend ever?” “Yeah, I’m excited to see the stars.” That had been Clay’s main selling point. Whenever he talked about space, Jason couldn’t help but listen. “They’re so bright out there, you can see so many constellations, I’ll point them all out to you.”

They chatted brightly, pausing only to eat, until they reached the base of the mountain.

“Alright, kiddos! Are we ready to go?” “Yeah, let’s go!” Clay cheered. Jason always joined in when his friend got rowdy. “Yeah!” Mr. Terran chuckled. “Alright then, don’t let this old man stop you.” “You’re not old, Mr. Terran. You’re 33. You probably have double what you’ve lived so far left, so that’s pretty young.” “Thanks, Jason, but I’ll let you in on a secret.” “Really?” “Being old is a mindset,” Mr. Terran and Clay said at the same time, though Clay’s tone was significantly more sarcastic. “So you’re old at 33?” “Mom said he was old at 15.” “I was! So don’t be afraid to be old. Now let’s be off, we’re burning daylight!”

It took a couple hours to get up to where they would be camping, mostly because Clay insisted on showing Jason all the best views and Jaason kept spotting little critters the others would have missed. By the fifth salamander Clay was already begging his dad to bring Jason with them more often. Up at the camp site, they still had plenty of time after they set up their two tents.

“Alright, kiddos, let’s eat lunch and then you two can explore while I get things ready for the fire tonight.” “Ok, dad. Jason, when we’re done, I’ve got to show you the clearing. There are lots of rocks to climb and sometimes deer wander in.” “Ok! That sounds like fun.”

The clearing was pretty big and there were lots of rocks as promised surrounded by a few patches of grass and wildflowers.

“C’mon, Jace! Let’s climb that one!” “That one’s kinda big, Clay.” “Exactly! It’ll give us a great view.”

Clay began scrambling up the rock and Jason tried to follow.

“Clay, are you sure this is ok?” “Course, Jace! Need help?” “N-no, I’ve got it.”

He did manage to get up to the top where there was a flat part. Clay was standing, but Jason chose to sit. It was a bit high up…

“This is my favorite place to see the stars from. We should come back here during the summer. A bit before my birthday, meteor showers come through.” “That’s cool. I’ve never seen any before.”

Clay wasn’t as perceptive as his friend, but he could tell when something was eating at him.

“What’s up?” “I just don’t know if my mom’s will want to keep me that long, so I don’t know where I’ll be. They’re only fostering me for a little while.” “Wherever you are we’ll come get you. You know my email and my dad’s so we can talk even if we can’t see each other all the time like we do now.” “You’ll forget about me after a bit. They always do.” “Well I’m not like the other ones. I’m not letting you go, ever.” “You say that like it’s simple.” “It is. You’re my best friend, Jace. Plus my dad thinks you’re great. Do you know how much trouble I used to get in before I met you?” “I’ve heard it was a lot.” “Sure was. Who else is going to keep me from doing crazy stuff if I don’t keep up with you?” “I’m sure you could find someone else.” “I don’t want someone else. I want my best bud, Jason. Unless this is your way of saying ‘Clay you’re way too annoying please leave me alone.’”

Clay ‘mimicked’ Jason’s voice as far lower than either of their actual voices making Jason laugh.

“Ok first of all, I don’t sound like that, thanks though. And second of all I wouldn’t come up a mountain into the middle of the wilderness with you and your dad to tell you to leave me alone.” “Just checking. So what do you think of my spot?” “You really can see the whole clearing from here.” “You can see better if you stand up.” “I’m good.” “Aw, why not?” “I don’t really like heights.” Clay froze. “You don’t like heights?” “Not particularly.” “Why did you come up here then? We didn’t have to climb anything if you don’t like heights! Is that why you were so nervous at the overlooks? Let me help you down.” Jason smiled. “If you want me to answer your questions you’ve really got to start asking them one at a time.” “Ah, sorry. Why didn’t you say anything?” “It’s not like a huge deal to me. And if you’ve been doing it this long, then theoretically it should be fine. You were really excited to show me this so I wanted to see. And it’s really not a problem if I just sit here. Can’t fall if I’m sitting on a flat rock.” “Oh, ok. Let me know when you want to get down. We can go to the stream that runs by here next… You’re not afraid of water, right?” Clay sat down next to Jason. “Not in a stream.” “Jason.” “I’ll be fine at the river, I just never learned to swim.” “Oh! I can teach you. I’m a very good swimmer.” “I’m pretty sure everyone at school knows that you think you’re a very good swimmer. You need a new pick up line.” Clay burst out laughing. “So what would you suggest, Mr. I’m-too-busy?” “I dunno. But if everyone’s heard it, you need a new one.” “Alright, I’ll think of something and let you know.”

They sat and watched the breeze run through the grass and flowers.

“My mom used to braid the flowers into circles and put them on our heads.” “Do you want to?” “I was never any good at it.” “How hard can it be? I’ve gotten pretty good at braiding, it can’t be too different from hair.”

Jason started his way down and Clay marvelled at how he was one track minded enough to forget his fear of heights when Jason decided he had something to do. It wasn’t all that surprising, he was always like that when he was doing something for someone else. All his anxiety would seem to slip away.

“Hey, wait up!”

Jason found a nice spot with a variety of wildflowers within reach. Obviously the stems weren’t long enough for a singular braid so it must be something like french braiding. The placement of the flowers was also probably important, but he figured he could adjust how they stuck out after the whole thing was done. The real question was how he was supposed to finish it off and get the front to connect with the back. Maybe he could twist the stems and tie it. That was a future Jason problem though. No use worrying about the end if you haven’t even started.

Clay watched Jason pick flowers and wind them together. He made it look so easy. Of course he was muttering to himself the whole time, barely audible and definitely not intelligible. That happened during math, too. Once he got to the end and appraised his work, he motioned for Clay to come next to him.

“What do you think?” “I think Mom’s were a little wider. She must have stuck extra flowers in after, too. But it looks really-”

Jason tossed his first attempt aside and started on another, this time using five strands. It would make sense to add more flowers after if you wanted it to look more full. Now that he’d gotten the hang of it, he made quick work.

“How’s that?” “Yeah, that’s… Mom might as well have made it herself.”

Clay choked up a bit looking at it. It was something so small to miss, but he couldn’t help it. He felt Jason put a hand on his leg, waiting for Clay to indicate what he wanted. Wiping his eyes, he turned to look at the crown once more. He picked it up and placed it on Jason’s head, whose eyes grew wide.

“She would have loved you.”

Jason could feel himself blush and looked away.

“She sounds really nice.” “The nicest.”

Jason started on another flower crown, weaving quickly and carefully. It would sit nicely in Clay’s fluffy hair. When it was done, it looked about the same as the first, and was placed carefully on Clay’s head.

“Thanks, Jace.” Clay leaned against him and Jason returned the gesture. “S’no problem.”

After a bit, Clay righted himself, which was probably a good thing because Jason definitely could have fallen asleep like that.

“Let’s go to the stream before the sun goes down too much. It gets darker faster in the woods with all the trees.” “Ok. Lead the way.”

They stayed at the stream splashing about, finding frogs and fish, and hopping from rock to rock until their stomachs protested the lack of sustenance.

“Let’s see if Dad is making dinner yet.” “Mm, I’m starving.” “I think we brought ravioli. There’s also stuff for s’mores.” “With regular marshmallows, right?” “Yeah? What other kinds are there?” “Well there are flavored kinds, but my moms get the sugar free kind and they’re really bad.” “Ew. Aren’t marshmallows just sugar? How do you replace the sugar in sugar?” “I don’t know but not well.”

Getting back to the camp the boys found Mr. Terran relaxing next to the campfire he’d set up in their absence.

“Ah, you’re back- Oh. Look at that.” “Dad?” “Did you figure out how to make those or did Jason figure it out?” “Oh,” Clay said as they both patted their heads remembering. “Yeah, Jason figured it out.” “Come here, boys.”

They did as told and were both pulled into a hug.

“Now I bet you boys are hungry. Who wants some Chef Boyardee?” “Yes please!” Jason bounced on his toes.

Clay got out the necessary equipment and plopped three cans of ravioli into the pot.

“So I see you went to the clearing.” “Yep! And then I brought Jace to the stream. We caught lots of frogs.” “You should’ve brought them back, we could have cooked some up.” “What?!” “Woah, I forgot about that. You’ve got quite the set of lungs on you. I was just kidding.” “Oh, sorry.” “No need to apologize. From what I’ve been told, outdoors is where you’re supposed to yell.” “Yeah, he sends me out back to yell all the time.” “So how’s school been, Jason?” “It’s fine. We’re doing a history report on Mesopotamia.” “Are we now?” Mr. Terran eyed his son who made a point to stir their dinner. “Do you like history?��� “Yeah. I’m doing mine on their laws.” “You’re interested in law?” “Yeah!I learned a lot about it so I could help the other kids and found it really interesting. I’ve been studying a bit of case law in my free time.” “I thought you were watching Case Closed,” Clay said “That too.”

They chatted for a bit until dinner was ready. It was strange for Jason, not that his moms didn’t care or ask him about all this, but they were busy sometimes and he felt like if he bothered them too much they’d send him away. It wasn’t anything they had done, but some of the other places he’d stayed hadn’t been exactly pleasant. With Mr. Terran it was nice. And of course Clay was there which was always a bonus.

Taking the time to sit and eat they could hear the birds and sounds from the nearby river. The trees rustled peacefully and the sun was low in the sky, creating a golden glow.

“I don’t suppose you boys have room for dessert.” “Sure do! Mallow me,” Clay implored. Mr. Terran chuckled. “Here you are.” He passed the bag of supplies. “Aren’t you forgetting something?” Jason asked Clay. “Umm… Sticks! Stick me.” Jason poked him with it. “Ouch! Hey…” Clay was rubbing his side. Jason laughed. “You told me to!” “Yeah, yeah. May I please have a stick?” “You may.”

Clay had at least five s’mores, he lost count. Jason had a sensible two, as did Mr. Terran. They chatted some more until the sun went completely down.

“Alright, this old man is going to get some shut eye. You boys are going to share a tent, but don’t stay up too late, talking, or else you won’t have any energy for swimming tomorrow!” “Thank you, Mr. Terran.” “Aw, call me Loamy. You’re around enough you might as well be my second son, you could even call me ‘Pops’ if you wanted.” “Um, thank you Loamy.” “No problem, kiddo.”

The boys quickly decided they would settle in as well. It was cloudy that night, so they didn’t stay out stargazing. Instead they turned on the electric lantern and talked for far too long about anything and everything.

-----------

The next morning Clay and Jason found themselves tangled up together. That was how most mornings after a sleepover found them. Jason would always have his own place to sleep, but they would both pass out on Clay’s after talking too much.

“Hey, hey Jace.” Clay nudged his friend. “Are you up?” “Nnngh. Too early.” “C’mon, we gotta get up! Dad packed sausage, potatoes, and tomatoes for breakfast today.” “Mmm?” “Yeah? That do it for you?” Clay chuckled. “I like breakfast.” His voice was gravelly from sleep. “C’mon, get dressed. Don’t forget to put on your swimsuit, I’m going to teach you how to swim.” “Ok. Then breakfast.” “Yes, then breakfast.”

The boy stumbled out fully dressed and ready to bother Loamy about breakfast only to find he was already cooking.

“I thought I heard you rustling around in there, so I went ahead and started up breakfast. Might be closer to lunch at this point, though,” he laughed.

Clay looked at his watch and grimaced. 11:45.

“Don’t worry about it. If all you have planned today is swimming then there’s no need to get up early anyway.” “Yeah, I don’t think I could have dragged Jace out any earlier anyway.” Clay grinned. “Clay…” Jason groaned. “Oh, I do recall that you’re not quite a morning person.” “Mm.” “That’s ok! We all have different skills. I couldn’t stay awake late if my life depended on it. One of these times, though, I’m going to watch a movie that starts at 7 PM all the way through.”

Clay laughed and Jason smiled. He’d be able to wake up a little more once they ate and got moving. Breakfast was really good and eaten in comfortable silence.

“Thanks for breakfast, Mr., um, Loamy.” Loamy laughed. “Not a problem. Now you two have fun at the river. Be careful.” “Yes, sir.”

Once they got down to the river, Clay scrambled to get his socks and shoes off then threw off his shirt and jumped in. Jason removed his shoes and made sure not to get anything on his socks before he took them off and put one in each shoe. He brought down another shirt so he could swim in his black one. Clay didn’t care, and his dad didn’t care, but Jason didn’t really like to have to look at his chest, at least not until he could get surgery. He wasn’t particularly busty, but it was there.

Jason found a spot where he could wade in. It might have been a river, but it was wide like a lake and he could barely feel the water flowing. He went out to his stomach before he felt the chill.

“That’s why I jumped. You don’t have to wait to adjust if you throw yourself in.” “But jumping would require me being able to swim.” “Oh, right. Once you get used to the water I can help you.” “Ok…” “We don’t have to if you don’t want to. We can just hang out by the shore.” “No, I trust you. I can do this.” “That’s the spirit!”

Jason took a moment to compose himself more than anything. He’d nearly drowned in a swimming pool when he was younger and wasn’t keen to repeat the experience. Honestly he probably wouldn’t even be in the water at all if Clay wasn’t there.

“Ok, I think I’m ready.” “Great.” Clay made his way over to Jason but stopped out a bit deeper. “Are you ok coming out to me?” “I’m trans.” “Very funny, Jace.” Clay rolled his eyes but was smiling. “I thought so.”

Jason walked out to where Clay was.

“What now?” “Now you’re going to hold onto my shoulders and practice kicking your legs a bit, just enough to keep you above water.” “You’re sure?” “Mostly.” “Clay…” “Just go for it! I won’t let anything happen to you.” “Ok. I trust you.” Jason did as he was told. “Like this?” “Just like that. Not so bad right?”

And that was when Jason looked at him. Clay blushed at the proximity.

“Right. It’s not so bad.”

Jason was blushing as well. It felt like a slow dance. Especially when Clay started to turn them around.

“So right now you’re treading water. Would you be ok letting go and seeing how you do on your own? I’m still right here, I’m not going anywhere.” “Yeah, ok. I think I can do that.”

When Jason let go he sank a little, but Clay refrained from lunging out to him to see how it would go. He stayed above water.

“If you use your hands too it’s a little easier, I’ll show you.” He took a few steps farther out and demonstrated what he meant. Jason copied immediately and seemed to be having an easier time. “It’s not so hard once you get the hang of it.” “See? Then if you want to move you just lean in that direction. Here.” Clay swam backwards a few feet. “Do you want to try swimming out to me? It’s still shallow enough here, I can get you back to shore if you need.” “Ok, I trust you.”

Jason was very nervous. Maybe he should have brought a life vest. Clay would never make fun of him for something like that. But he’d already come this far, what was moving forward a few feet? Ok, Justice. You’re fine. You can do this.

“There you are. I knew you could do it.” “I did. I did it!” He tried to celebrate but sunk a bit further in the water, not being used to it all yet. “Woah, hey, don’t get cocky. You’re still a beginner, but you’ll get there. Do you want to try some more?” “I think I’ll hang out by shore, but you can swim. I just like to sit in the water.” “Are you sure?” “Yep!”

Jason went back the couple of feet and walked himself in to sit in the shallows. He watched Clay swim and occasionally dive down. A couple of times he brought back a snail or a rock that he found at the bottom to show Jason. If it was long enough in between, small fish would be surrounding Jason when Clay got there. They saw a couple deer on the other side of the river and watched them silently until they disappeared back into the forest. Eventually the boys were getting pruney and decided to get out of the water and dry off.

Clay let Jason start with the towel so he could change shirts. It was once he had dried off he realized something. In his haste he’d accidentally flung his shirt into a tree. He tried to jump for it but could just barely hit it with the tips of his fingers. He heard a snort and found Jason trying not to get caught laughing at him. Clay just grinned.

“Jace, you’re taller, can you reach?” “I think so.” He jumped and grabbed Clay’s shirt from the tree. “There.” “Thanks. I’ll return the favor when I’m taller than you.” “Ugh, don’t remind me. I have like two more years of growing, tops.” “Hey, at least you’ll always have me to grab things from the top shelf for you.”

Jason shoved Clay who laughed. They got their shoes on and explored until dinner. That night it was much of the same until the sun started to set.

“Ok, I’ve got the telescope, you have the flashlight?” Clay asked. “Yep.” “We should bring a blanket, too.” “I’ll get one.”

They set off for the clearing in time to set the telescope up before it was too dark to see. Clay pointed some stars and planets out as they appeared, Polaris and Mars being among them. Once it got dark enough, Clay followed through on his promise to show Jason Ceres.

“It looks like the moon.” “It’s a lot smaller than the moon, less than a third of the size.” “What are the bright spots?” “That’s light reflecting off of salts that were in the water that came up.” “There’s water?” “Yep! Most likely in liquid form beneath the surface. Isn’t that cool?!” “Yeah. I thought water was supposed to be rare.” “It is, technically speaking. Several bodies have water, mostly in solid form, but it’s still pretty rare. Liquid water is widely believed to be necessary to the creation of life, but we actually don’t know. Any evidence we have in support of that still only comes from a sample size of one.” “Huh. So all those documentaries about like the ocean or whatever that start off saying water is necessary for life?” “Have no clue what they’re talking about. They could be right, but not because they actually know. Water is necessary for the way carbon based life developed on Earth, but may be entirely unnecessary to other types of life that may or may not be possible.” “Science is way too complicated.” “And law is easy?” “Easier at least.” “No way.” “Well I’ll let you do science and I’ll do law and we won’t have any issues.” “That ‘s fine by me.” “Show me something else.”

Clay was able to find more interesting things to look at until they eventually laid out the blanket and switched to stargazing. Clay knew every constellation and its story, or at least it seemed like he did to Jason. Story after story, Jason took it all in, wondering what life was like for the people who had spun these tales. One in particular caught his attention for another reason. It was innocuous and unremarkable in most capacities, a single sentence with barely anything to it. But to him it felt like coming home.

“Over there is Corvus, Apollo’s bird, riding the hydra.”

Apollo’s bird. His bird.

"That one." "Huh?" "Apollo. I like that one." "You're going to have to be more specific." "Do you think you could call me that?" "Hmm? Sure! Apollo… I think it suits you. It would pair well with your last name and interests, considering he’s the god of law.” “Really?” Apollo rolled over and propped himself up so he could look at Clay proper. “Yeah. He covers the sun, prophecy, lyrical arts, medicine, healing, archery, and is patron of the shepherds and the ideal of male beauty as well.” “That’s a lot of things.” “A lot of people needed him to be a lot of things. I think you’ll be a lot of things too. And I’ll be an astronaut.” “Just an astronaut?” “I like to keep it simple.” “Being an astronaut doesn’t sound very simple.” “Well I’m a simple guy so I’ll simply be an astronaut.” “... That’s not how that works.” “Not with that attitude it isn’t.”

Apollo laughed. Maybe things could be that simple. A lot of people said being a boy wasn’t simple either, but he thought it was simple enough.

“Ok. You’ll simply be an astronaut and I’ll simply be a lot of things.” “That’ll be fun. We should live together.” “Obviously.” “We can get an apartment for college and then when I’m a rich and famous astronaut we can get a house. Maybe a dog.” “I like cats better.” “We can get a cat too. If we get them at the same time they can be friends so they won’t be lonely when we’re out.” “That would be nice. We should have a big yard and lots of rooms.” “Yeah! And at least one balcony, and we have to be able to get on the roof to see the stars.” “Our bedrooms should be next to each other. We should get a bath that’s giant and we can swim in.” “Oh! And we could have an arcade.” “And a library. And the kitchen has to be nice.” “You’ll have to cook. Everything I don’t burn tastes bad.” “You can get better. I’ll teach you.” “I appreciate the optimism.” “You’ll get better or you'll starve.” “Seems I’m destined for an early grave.” “Clay!” “I’m kidding. You can teach me how to cook that rice thing your moms make.” “With the chicken?” “With the cinnamon.” “Clay, you can’t live off of rice pudding.” “I can try.” Apollo sighed. “I can teach you how to make it, but you’re learning other recipes, too.” “Fine by me.”

They looked at the stars a while longer, Clay occasionally mentioning something about them which would lead them off on tangents. After they both nearly fell asleep, they packed up and returned to the tent where they passed out in their day clothes, not bothering with blankets.

-----------

When the boys woke up, Loamy was off somewhere, probably having hiked up to see the sunrise. That was one of his favorite things to do. Clay walked over to a tree and began inspecting it.

“What are you looking for?” “I’m looking for… I think it’s… Aha! Here, my mom and da carved their names into this tree, see? I thought we should do it too.” “Really?” “Yeah! Unless you don’t want to. I know you might change your name again, so if you don’t want this one written in stone… or tree, you don’t have to.” “No, I think this is the one. I can’t explain it, but it feels right.” “Ok! Then here we go. Clay and Apollo.”

Clay found a knife and carved his name in a bit lower than where his parents had done it, then passed the knife to Apollo. When they were done they took a look at their handiwork. Their names would be there as long as the tree was, quite possibly long after they themselves were gone. Clay and Apollo.

“You boys are up early this morning!” “Gah!” “Oops, I think you startled Apollo.”

Nice one Clay. Seamless introduction.

“Jason not work out?” “I found something better.” “Well I’m glad. You know I had a friend once. She identified with the gender she had been given, but when she was 18, she changed her name. I asked her why and she told me that a name should feel like home. Every time someone you care about says your name it should feel like coming home. I didn’t quite get it at first, but after a while I realized she was right. So no matter how many names you’ve been through, it’s important to find the right one.”

Like coming home. That’s exactly what he’d thought when he heard Clay say it.

“That’s how I feel about this one.” “I’m glad. So how do you boys feel about pop tarts?” “Oh, what kind?” Clay asked. “Let’s see. Hot fudge sundae?” “Those ones are the best!” He nodded vigorously. “Yeah those ones are good. Sometimes Lisa will give me hers in the morning.” “Gee, Pollo, how come you get to have two girls with massive crushes on you?” “What?! They don’t either. She just does it cause we’re friends and she prefers strawberry.” “There’s no way that’s true.”

After breakfast, they packed up the site, but had a couple hours before they had to head back down the mountain. Loamy stuck around the site and relaxed while Clay and Apollo went back to the stream to see who could catch the most salamanders.

Heading back down the mountain was as lively as going up, filled with laughter and shenanigans. On the ride back they watched Shrek on the portable player they kept in the car. Apollo’s moms were out when he got dropped off, but that was fine. They were probably shopping sales. A saying Apollo had heard often was ‘Never pay full price for anything.’ and as far as he had seen it was good advice. Clay waved him goodbye with the promise of seeing him Monday and then they were gone. Apollo approached the small whiteboard on the outside of his door and erased ‘Jason’, replacing it with ‘Apollo’.

[yjwhatif]

YJ EPISODE 23 SPOILER NOTES… only three episodes left 😣

First off I would like to start proceedings with the following statement… ED IS NOT IN THIS EPISODE AND THAT IS A CRIME!… okay move on to what was actually in the episode…

Its that lizard kid from Cuba

Oh no Wilhelms leading the mob

Brion returns with a new suit and team... including Papa Smurf - thats Now two Metas who were at Taos last season (and yet there's no Ed in this episode)

So Wilhelm's a Meta? Or is it Everyman has been pretending to be Wilhelm?

New look for violet - looking lovely in pink

Violet can now levitate other things - Could they be one of the most powerful character in the series?

That is exactly how one should go up the stairs when in the presence of a friend who can levitate stuff

I very much prefer this Harper - it just shows how capable a person is to change when given the love and support they deserve from a stable home environment. She genuinely seems happy.

Wait, Harper was actually dating someone? I figured she was just lying about that... Y 'know what, the less we discuss that event the better

Yay for Harper actually communicating her feelings whilst also not pushing for Violet to immediately reciprocate (It kinda reminds me of Imogen in Heartstopper)

The confess feelings and run away move

Ooh that eyebrow raise at the mention of M’gann - I really think she's the only one capable of bringing Conner back from this

That is serious commitment to your cause - sticking your hard straight into boiling lava!

“I've pledged my loyalty to Zod” - Oh no - that's not good.

“you mean, you'll do them like you did your uncle" - Brions reaction to this is so interesting - he doesn't show anger or disrespect - he's taken aback in a way that almost shows hurt or regret at now being known for such a thing

Love seeing Fury noticing something isn't right with Baazovi

TAOS mention! (yet no Ed in the episode!)

This episode's really gonna go and convince me that I was wrong for hating on Brion, isn't it? Baazovi is really swaying peoples opinions - Brion is showing genuinely reasonable thinking and clearly wants the best for his people and Metas -but he's never going to achieve those desire while he remains under the thumb of Baazovi and the light.

WE RETURN TO TAOS! (And yet we still have No Ed in this episode!)

Group therapy session with Dinah - bring it on. I've said this before but I do like how much we’re actually seeing of the mental health check in sessions and now in more forms than just one on one. The fact that everyone is so open with each other here emphasises how these sessions must have been going on for a while in the background for everyone to be so comfortable with each other.

So we have 3 outsiders, 2 Team-ers, 1 Leaguer, and Gar - I like that there's a range of people at the session

Vic & Violet’s friendship is great - I kinda always forget that its a thing and then they have moments that remind me - and then I'm like - oh ye, Violet literally saved his life so many times and that meant a lot to him.

I just had to look this up - but I did not realise Lia was supposed to be Scottish!

"Gee, I wonder who that could be?” I love this more chilled out Tara - She's fun.

"Who we talking about?"" You don't have to give us a name" - Dinah trying to reign in the teens

Dinah truly is awesome!

GET JACE OFF MY SCREEN RIGHT NOW! I HATE HER AND EVERY WORD THAT ESCAPES HER MOUTH! She is Umbridge level evil!

Stop brainwashing the kid! And get him away from Jace!

"I do not like the look of this" - there may be hope for Brion - If we can just get him away from Baazovi - hopefully Fury can help with that

"Please, say nothing!"… *Conner immediately snitches* — Well, I guess now we know why Dick never told Conner any of the secret plans

Markovia really is a mess - that poor minister guy

Callback to the start of Z's arc

Poor Dick - he's losing everything

Wingman is freaking adorable!

Dinah's face at the idea of Gar doing his business outside as a dog

Oh Leslie seriously has the feels for Andi - are we gonna final get some confirmation on these two?

Gars making some serious improvements and we love him for it! He's doing the time and committing to the work

“I know I'm not ready for the outsiders right now” - It'll be interesting to see how the Bart and Conner situations may/may not effect that decision.

"She can get us out!?" - They just got very intense very quickly

"She won’t take you…She hates you - called you a tyrant" - The betrayal on Phantom Girls face! Conner stop talking!

First time seeing how the Zods respond to someone who opposes them

"You will kneel before Zod"

Phantom Girl crying as she leaves Conner behind - and when you consider the commitment she made to save him from the explosion in the first place - putting her hand in literal lava - you can really feel for her now

That scream of pain

That shot of Brion alone in his throne in complete silence really highlights how isolated he's become by following this path

The genuine look of happiness Brion has at seeing Violet - I'm really feeling for Brion in a way I did not expect!

Halo's got a costume redesign and I love the new style - the only thing I don't really like is the purple that's still on the hood - it just doesn't go with the red, Yellow and blue that's now on the body. I don't think it would bother me as much if there was some other purple bits else where - like on the hand and feet bits that are now red, or even a slight purple outline at either side of the rainbow. Other than that I really like it - it really shows that they are taking control of all aspects of their life - which is great!

“I missed you!”

I like this conversation that they having

PISS OFF BAAZOVI!

You tell him Vi!

"I have continued my journey but you are still stuck where I left you a year ago!" → Which highlights an interesting parallel between the scenes at Taos and those in Markovia - Dinah stressed the fact that everyone there was in complete control of the experience they had there - no one was being told what to do or how to do it - they guide each other but ultimately make their own choice on how to progress. As we see from both gar and violet, this makes for a really positive experience which helps a person change for a better. Where as with Brion, he's surrounded by those who are manipulating him, making his choices and tricking him into believing they are his own - he's stuck in the same state he was in a year ago because he has no control in his own kingdom or in being his own person - he's basically a puppet tied in place with no way to brake free. The can't progress because he isn't allowed to - and so he'll remain stuck until he finds a way to gain some control back in his life... though I doubt that's gonna happen any time soon.

SHUT UP BAAZOVI!

You tell him Brion!

Fury + Brion confiding in each other... though I just had a horrible feeling of what if one of them isn't who they appear to be?!

Violets finally moving on

"TA-DAH!" hey that's Bart’s thing!

Why is the image of a gremlin hugging a packet of Chicken Whizees so adorable?

"Hope you enjoy them!" Grumpy Grayson

"I hate keeping secrets" No you don't! I appreciate that Kaldur gives him the side eye at that - there is absolutely no one who believes you Dick

I do get why they're not involving M’gann - though I do think she's the only one who will be able to actually save Conners mind

"Feeding you my power" - again calling back to Zs arc

"Next Stop, the Phantom Zone"

The Hall of Justice is finally getting rebuilt?!… I wonder how long it’s gonna take for that to get blown again… maybe keep the youngsters away from it this time?

I love all the little cheers of Celebration - "Neptunes Beard!"

So while there was no Ed content ☹️ or anymore Bart development - which I had a feeling might happen - this was still a seriously enjoyable episode and it really had a season 1 vibe about it - at least to me it did anyway. I did not expect what we got with Brion but I did actually like seeing it and realising he’s maybe not the evil villain I was expecting him to be. It’s actually kinda sad how controlled he is. In contrast, it makes me really happy to see how much Violet has grown whilst on their journey of self discovery and seeing how much control and confidence they now have is a really uplifting sight to see. Bring on the next episode!

LB

[the-warrior-sys]

Oh Fuck hey! It's been a long ass time. Fortunately this isn't an update, more of a ramble, and a system update.

So we've been in college, and we aren't going to be returning, I think I mentioned that in another post but if not, there you go!

Our health is declining and the autistic burnout from classes isn't helping! So we're throwing in the towel in favor of gainful adulting. Whoo!

As a result, our partner and us have an apartment (AHHHH) it's honestly so exciting and we're so ready to start this new chapter with such an amazing human by our side. Well also get to focus on special interests (collecting (I might do a whole post about this because being able to freely create joy for ourselves has been amazingly healing bro) , writing, art) and starting our small business and overall, I think, we'll be far happier for it.

As for us, our previous 8 is now 13!

Here's the full roll call (by order of appearance) with system role:

Zay (still dormant, rip my man)

Gessa (caregiver)

Vayda (physical protector)

Theodore (co-host, manager dude, big man)

Cassius (hypeman (fancy word for multiroll system member)

Jace (emotional protector)

Chance (small man, big man, he's versitile, but generally no role/just vibing)

Adonis (physical protector)

Miranda (small lady, medium lady)

Dexx (that's me!) (Host)

Spencer (that's my brother!) (Emotional support for me, Hypebeast)

Zachary (Zach, zachyboi) (helps us unmask! Not sure what to call him but he's a cool dude)

Skylar (physical protector)

I'm sure if you've followed us a while you noticed the new names so let me give you a run through.

Me and Spencer are fictives from something the system was/is writing. First it was just me. I was here 3 days and had several mental breakdowns then Spencer arrived. We aren't sure entirely why we're here but therapist figures we've been around and we're just fragments for a bit so we'll go with that for us (and others, because it truly does track for some things) (I'll get into it later)

Zach got here after a buildup of burnout and overstim and a lot of other shit that was basically us Hyper Masking and overcompensating. He's a super cool dude, doesn't talk (but has mastered the Artfully placed squeak).

Skylar just got here! We suspect she's been here a while based on being able to *hear her* for a while, so she's not necessarily new in that sense but certainly new fronting/interaction wise.

Pretty cool but doesn't really interact with any of us. Very influenced by the last of us. (Game, not show, we hyper fixated for a few months and it's been revamped since the show started)

We aren't, at all, sure why we have so many physical protectors but, hey, not complaining.

The "honeymoon" communication phase is, over, lmao. Mostly because we've needed to be seamlessly functional and don't really have *time* to be functionally multiple. It's incredibly annoying but we're working on it since it's not something any of us are enjoying. (Memory barriers go brrrr)

To be honest, We are way less hypervigilant and clinical (verbally speaking) about system information because, frankly, we don't give a Fuck anymore and have no real reason to. We've been living (functionally) like this since last may and all that new system "oh shit, oh Fuck, gotta prove ourselves" shit has worn off. I credit that to the host position changing hands so many times but we've also grown a lot so eh, who knows. But it's groovy either way.

I wish I could give Zay a hug. Last year, until about August, was a confusing Hell of dissociation and mental health issues and probably shit I can't even remember, honestly I'm surprised we adjusted this well.

Anyway! That's that! Been missing Tumblr, will try to pop on when we have time - Dexter

[khaleesiofalicante]

OK I GOT 5 HOURS OF SLEEP LAST NIGHT WHICH IS PRETTY OK IG (I did stay up to read the fic-) BOTH MY TESTS WENT LIKE SHIT, I HAD AN ANXIETY ATTACK IN PROGRAMMING CLASS BECAUSE BY TEACHER IS A LITTLE SHIT WHO KEPT ON YELLING AT ME WHEN I DIDN'T UNDERSTAND SOMETHING AND I SPENT LUNCH ALONE BUT AT LEAST NOW IM ALONE WITH MY LAPTOP SO YAYAYAYYA

first of all, this chapter right here is my comfort chapter from now on. i said what i said. I will be rereading it again and again just because i can. it was PERFECTION

here's me going crazy at 2 am yesterday.

MAGNUS' CHAPTER

LET'S GO LET'S GO LET'S GO

AHHHHHHH IT'S THEIR ANNIVERSARY

SCREAM

oh

alec shaved his beard because it made him look older

RAFAEL WAS SO UPSET AFTER THE MEXICO ATTACK BECAUSE OF ANJALI RIGHT??

magnus and alec are the oblivious parents istg

“Are you decent?” Max yelled. “I don’t want to be traumatized again.”

“Hey! We agreed not to talk about that!” Alec yelled back.

Im not even surprised at this point

“Happy anniversary, bapa!” Rafael kissed him on the cheek and handed him the flowers.

“Where are my flowers?” Alec asked.

Rafael plucked a rose from the bouquet and threw it at Alec. “Here you go.”

“Thanks, son,” Alec mumbled.

IM WHEEZING

DAVID BAKES

“David made it,” Max said shyly. "

Oh,” Alec replied and then shrugged. “Well, the icing could be a little sweeter I think.”

Ever since Max started dating, Alec had become incredibly protective. Alec liked David of course – it was impossible to find someone who didn’t. But that didn’t mean Alec approved.

And it didn’t help that the blond boy was absolutely terrified of Alec.

ALEC STOP TEASING HIM

THE BOY IS ALREADY SCARED

“I don’t know,” Alec analysed the card. “David used too much glitter.”

“Since when do you have a problem with excessive glitter?” Max demanded.

ALEC

“I didn’t use him!” Max huffed. “He was thoroughly compensated for his efforts!”

“Compensated how?” Alec asked.

“Uh,” Max said. “With donuts.”

when i saw donuts i immediately thought of rose and luisa from jtv

iykyk

but should i continue the show? i got tired of jane continuously embarrasing herself

“You expect us to follow rules?” Alec asked in surprise. “In our own home? On our anniversary?”

The warlock boy grinned wickedly before leaning close to Alec.

“You better do it, or I will tell everyone about your secret,” Max whispered.

Alec blinked at that.

the secret...

I DONT LIKE HOW MANY THINGS POPPED INTO MY HEAD

is highschool musical that bad? i havent watched it. should i?

what if i cried

i just wanna hug alec??? but i cant say it'll be ok because it wont

“Is that why you are not attending?” Magnus grinned at his friend. “Or is it because you are terrified of Georgia?”

“That child is the reincarnation of Christopher Lightwood!” Ragnor complained. “I heard she made explosives out of demon ichor! Who makes explosions out of demon ichor?”

RAGNOR IS PROBABLY GETTING FLASHBACKS

THESE STUPID FUCKING BITCHES

how tf do you think we have survived huh??

medicine that's how

vaccines, anti biotics and what not

stop being close-minded and fucking do it

ok i know the risk is great

BUT OTHERWISE THEY ALL DIE

it was different for warlocks. The Shadow World was their universe. The nephilim kept it safe. At one point in their lives, they had learned to coexist with them, out of necessity and out of obligation.

And now here they were – working together in the name of friendship and love.

how things change...

what

say what

the causes are what

ok let's not jump to conclusions

im fucking crying wtf

alec doesnt deserve this shit

all he's done is make the world a better place

hes worked so hard on this

RAZIEL CAN GO FUCK HIMSELF

what am i supposed to say to my parents if one of them comes to check on me and im sitting here crying at 2 am

He didn’t want to believe in a reality that would punish Alec. Alec who only wanted to do what is good and right.

Alec was who was losing his hope and strength every passing day. Alec who was struggling. Alec who was turning to desperate measures to cope with all the stress.

please alec

no please

THE ANGELS ARE BITCHES

Because if Magnus found out Raziel was the one causing all this pain for Alec, he would march up to heaven and set the bastard on fire himself.

AND I'LL GO WITH HIM

KNEW THE SPY WAS LIVVY

AWW RAGNOR LIKES SELENA THATS SO SWEET

blue and gold

STOP IT IM CRYING AGAIN

The shadowhunter was a good influence on him. Magnus hoped Alec would see it sooner rather than later.

HUH

HUHU

HUH

omg

GIGI GETTING A SIBLING

“Max isn’t allowed to do a lot of things,” Magnus chuckled. “But he does them anyway.”

thats my boi

GASP

]THE NECKLACE

rafael is growing into the consul voice

they grow up so fast

nope nope he's still the little 5 year old

voice cracking what do you mean he's 20

im glad hes happy with mila. or is he...?

Magnus had deduced as much. Alec lived in his beautifully oblivious world. But Magnus noticed.

He noticed the hickeys. He noticed the late-night visits. He noticed the tense phone calls.

well thank god there's at least one non-oblivious person (alec i love you so much but you are very very oblivious)

“What’s stopping you then?” Magnus asked.

"2554 miles,” Rafael chuckled sadly.

me with all my online friends

probably more miles

Magnus tried to do the math but promptly gave up.

me

But Alec did lie though. Magnus pushed the thought away.

NOT NOW

LET ME LIVE IN PEACEFUL OBLIVION

HUSH

“Except melt it?” Rafael chuckled.

“Yes,” Magnus chuckled back. “As you can see, the bar is extremely low in the Lightwood family.”

AHHIUCCDSKUHDCV

i have no clue what the words describing the outfit are

time to google

OK PRETTY

Fifteen years. Fifteen years of loving and Alec still made his heart stutter.

dont do this to me right now I WILL CRY

“What the hell?” Max exclaimed. “Why are you all dressed up?”

“In case you haven’t noticed, it’s my anniversary,” Alec chuckled.

Max-

Fifteen years. Fifteen years and Magnus still took Alec’s breath away.

HJCSDHJBJDHSGCDYGJVVC JHVDFYMJ

it's not funny MY EYES ARE WATERING

“Bapak is a good looking one in the family,” Rafael pointed out. “You are the chaotic one and I am the smart one.”

“What am I then?” Alec asked dryly. “A sack of potatoes?”

“You’re the sexy one,” Magnus grinned. “A sexy sack of potatoes.”

yes.

Alec grinned back and leaned forward. Magnus put his hands around Alec’s neck and kissed him. He kissed Alec with all the love he had inside his heart.

Just like the first time. Just like the hundredth time. Just like the thousandth time.

Because with Alec, every kiss mattered. Every single one.

muffled sob

“Stop making out, oh my god!” Max groaned.

Magnus sensed a pillow coming their way but Rafael caught it before it hit them.

“Max, stop!” Rafael scolded. “You will wrinkle dad’s suit and ruin bapak’s hair! I spent hours ironing both!”

why is max me when i see people display affection in front of me

ALSO RAFAEL HKUIUIDCSKIHUDFVHJDFVHU

“They are here,” Rafael said. “You two better look exactly the way you did when I left with Max or I will raise hell.”

IM SCREAMING

Selena was wearing a blue crop top with the words “MIND YOUR OWN UTEREUS” written in gold.

i need that top

DAVID'S SHIRT IS THE COLOR OF MAX'S MAGIC

AHH ISABELLE DOESNT KNOW SHE'S PREGNANT YET

The argument of “who gave the best gift” had started when Jace and Izzy had gotten drunk on vodka. It didn’t help that Alec had gotten drunk as well. All three Lightwood siblings had then proceeded to have an argument about who had the best spouse. The whole night had been drunken chaos. Magnus, Clary and Simon had let them have it since the Lightwood siblings had a tendency to carry the world on their shoulders even when nobody asked them. They rarely ever let loose ever since their worlds had plunged into sickness and demon attacks. Especially Alec. So, Magnus had let his husband be that 18-year-old boy again. The boy who got drunk and fought with his siblings and sang songs about Magnus’ pretty eyes.

OH MY GOD THE CHAOS

Georgia considered that. “I’m not allowed to melt it, right?”

“No,” they all replied in chorus.

LET GIGI MELT IT

SELENA IM SO PROUD OF YOU

“Dad,” Max said. “Can you keep a picture of me wearing this necklace in your office?”

“Why?” Rafael asked.

“I think it will piss off the boomers,” Max giggled.

“Nice!” Lexi grinned. “A downworlder wearing a shadowhunter heirloom? They will lose their heads. Uncle Alec, you must do it.”

“I will do you one better. I will hang a tapestry,” Alec chuckled.

YASSS I CANT WAIT FOR THE SHADOWHUNTERS TO BE PISSED

AWW THEY DIDNT KNOW THE NECKLACE USED TO BELONG TO MAGNUS

he actually gave to camille first-

Why couldn’t this boy just cause chaos during his travel year like the rest of them? Why did he actually study and do his research as recommended?

why would you NOT study and research during your travel year????

oh shit

well well well

david bby stfu

i love you but pls stop speaking for all our sakes

“Holy shit,” Max said. “It is expensive then!”

“Don’t pawn the ruby!” Rafael warned.

MAX NO-

OH THE STONE COMES FROM EDOM

oh no

pls dont fight

oh so i was wrong about magus confronting him from that snippet

all you need to know is im sobbing right now and grammarly is the only thing making this coherent

dont mind me just

NO I FORGOT ABOUT MAX AND DAVID

GET BACK IN THE ROOM YOU IDIOTS

don't do this to me at 3 am

OK THE DILF PART

thank you for adding light into my life again

(me while editing this: today really isn't my day huh? i just slipped in rainwater outside my balcony because I heard rain and ran there. now my knee and back hurt and I think I sprained (?) my toe-

ANYWAY

wait im gonna go check out the rain and then continue editing this

ok i got bored of the rain)

that made me laugh through my tears

“Objectively good looking?” Jace snorted. “Excuse you, but my parabatai is smoking hot! He is a freaking prize, okay? If we had a magazine for hot shadowhunters, you would be on the cover page. Every single issue.”

“Okay, that’s enough!” Alec interrupted. “Magnus, are you happy? Now all my friends have told me I am pretty.”

“I said smoking hot,” Jace corrected.

“We are not being biased,” Clary pointed out. “It is the general consensus, Alec.”

“It’s true,” Lexi said. “So many people have asked me for your number, Uncle Alec. And I would have given it to them if I wasn’t worried about being turned into a marshmallow.”

LEXI DUHDUGHUDFCUHKVDFUIKFDU

“Dad, I don’t know why you are so worried,” Max said in a bored tone. “You’re a told DILF.”

David choked on his champagne and Jace patted him on the back.

“What the hell is a DILF?” Alec demanded.

“Oh, I know this one!” Jace said excitedly. “It means Dashing and Irresistible Looking Father. Max is right, you are a total DILF.”

“Mr. Herondale-” David raised a hand.

“I heard one of the shadowhunters in their travel year calling me a DILF too,” Jace said proudly.

THAT IS NOT WHAT DILF MEANS OH MY GOD

“It’s not a rumour,” Selena spoke up and passed her phone. “There is a group chat at Scholomance just to thirst after you.”

add me to it

ALL THE COMMENTS I CANT BREATHE

“Alec Lightwood can run me over with a Maserati and I would thank him.”

“Give me that,” Izzy grabbed the phone and started giggling. “Petition for Consul Alec Lightwood-Bane to stab me with his mortal sword.”

“Isabelle!” Alec hissed, cheeks flaming. “Stop it!”

“I want one!” Jace grabbed the phone now. “By the Angel!”

“Read it!” the kids yelled in chorus.

“I would gladly let Consul Lightwood-Bane inspect my mortal instruments,” Jace chuckled and threw the phone at David.

David shook his head vehemently and threw it at Max.

“My body is just a hole for Alec Lightwood,” Max read out loud and started laughing so hard that he fell off his chair.

Lexi grabbed the phone and giggled. “I want the Consul to strip off my runes among other things.”

She passed the phone to Gigi, who looked at the phone and look at Alec.

“Uncle Alec,” the girl said. “This person wants you to crush them with your massive archer arms.”

“Give me that,” Rafael grabbed it now. “Aw, this one is a classic, dad. Alec Lightwood turned me gay.”

He threw the phone at Simon, who stared the screen and looked up. “Uh, I don’t think I can read this one out loud in front of the kids.

“Is this the one about the basement?” Selena chuckled and Simon nodded.

WHAT'S THE BASEMENT ONe

TELL ME

AWW GIGI AND LEXI PUTTING MAKEUP ON DAVID AND MAX RECORDING IT

google translator time

oooo Rafael's gonna talk with Mila

Magnus you're such a good father

seriously

“Sometimes things are just sad. So, you need to let yourself be sad.”

YES

SAY IT LOUDER

THEY ARE UNDER THE BED

AHHH MAX AND DAVID

DAVID CALLED HIM MY ANGEL IN FRENCH

Alec and Magnus hiding under the bed and spying on them is just-

Jace had tried to give Max the shovel talk and had gotten a little too emotional.

of course, he did smh I love him so much

“David doesn’t need a shovel talk,” Alec smiled. “He knows what would happen to him if he hurts my son.”

David gulped. “You will throw me into the silent city?”

“I will ask me husband to portal you to hell,” Alec said – Consul Voice. “We have relatives there.”

the beloved relatives yes

“Goodnight,” Jace gave them a salute. “Have fun inspecting Magnus’ mortal instruments.”

JACE

OH SO THE QUESTION WAS ABOUT SMOKING

damn it

oh my god guys he said he'll stop smoking

just lemme have this moment

my boy's lungs will be intact

HIS LUNGS WILL BE OK

“I can’t wait to see all the messages on the chat after that,” Magnus giggled.

Alec looked up. “I’m more than a tall glass of water, Magnus!”

SCREAMING

In his dream, he saw them again. But they weren’t smiling this time.

what

wait

THE PROPHETIC DREAMS

nope nope nope

Nah I don't know what you're talking about

haha

damn, I think I really hurt my back...

OK BUT THE IMMORTALITY ANGST???? WAS SO SO GOOD???? I know it makes me cry but is it bad that I'm always so excited for angst written by you because of HOW GOOD it is????

"When I die I will love you from my grave" I NEED THIS ON MY FOREHEAD OH MY GOD I LOVE THESE TWO SO SO MUCH

alright I need to get something for my back and my knee (I'm home alone so this will be fun)

OK, I THINK THE NEXT CHP WILL BE ANJALI'S POV I JUST FEEL IT!!! I miss my girl so much I hope she's doing ok. Jaime too...

I'm rereading all of these chapters after chapter 10 because why not. Bye!!

OKAY I AM GLAD YOU LIKED IT BUT I AM ALSO DEEPLY WORRIED ABOUT YOUR HEALTH.

I hope your knee and back feels better soon!

also fuck that teacher yelling something doesn't make people understand it any better ugh dumb piece of shit anyway screw that person.

I hope you get some good rest and recovery from this rollercoaster of a day.

Take care!

[daughterofadeadman]

Double Sided

Pairings: Alec x Stiles

Warnings: Drinking, fluff

Description: The one where Lydia drags Stiles to a party and he runs into Alec, literally. College AU

Word count: 1468

"Whose party is this anyways?" Stiles asked clambering out of the car. It's not like he actually cared, he was just trying to delay the inevitable.

"Lightwood, you don't know him. He's totally your type though, tall with black hair and brooding basically a young Derek Hale by all standards. Now if you're ready we can go in." Lydia said making a show of throwing her hair over her shoulder.

"That is not my type. I'm more of a strawberry blond type of guy if you know what I mean." He said completely ignoring the comment about his stalling.

Lydia scuffed at his words, "You haven't been a strawberry blond type of guy since sophomore year. Now shut up and come and party with me."

Stiles sighed but gave in while slightly trudging through the neatly cut grass. It wasn't that Stiles didn't like to go to parties, he had lost his virginity thanks to one Junior year, it was just that he wasn't in the mood to be dumped. Lydia always left him when they went to parties together, merely because they attracted different crowds, and it always put a damper on Stiles night. Tonight would be no exception and he knew better then to think it would be.

The music vibrated through Stiles body like an electric shock the closer they got to the house. The two had to park down the road because of the excess of party goer's vehicles lining the street on both sides. "This guy most be known for throwing some great parties." Stiles thought looking at the number of people dancing on the lawn which was already littered in plastic cups.

Once Lydia and Stiles breached the threshold of the house red solo cups were thrusted into their hands. "Cheers." Lydia said tapping her cup to Stiles before downing half the cup.

"Cheers." Stiles replied taking a small sip. A look of disgust painted his features once the substance hit his taste buds. "Gross."

A laugh escaped Lydia's lips as she pulled Stiles to the dance floor. "Come on let loose." She yelled over the pounding of the base. Taking another gulp of her drink she began to dance to the music's beat. Stiles rolled his eyes but did as his bestfriend demanded.

Within a few minutes Stiles had finished his drink without throwing up. He did not enjoy beer, he was more of a whiskey guy like his father. If he was going to be honest he thought it was more enjoyable watching everyone get drunk then it was getting drunk, but he was doing this for Lydia.

The sassy girl had it set in her mind that Stiles needed a night out, and he wasn't going to take that away from her, not just yet. It wasn't until they both began dancing with other people that he slipped away to the kitchen.

The kitchen was really only separated from the dining room by a bar, which was covered in crushed or fallen cups. The great oak table was being used for beer pong and the counter held a couple being a little too intimate for Stiles liking. Rolling his eyes, he headed to the back of the kitchen hoping to find somewhere to sit down and wait out Lydia. Making his way through couples making out in the hallway he found himself in a smaller sitting room.

What he wasn't expecting was for a tall, dark, and handsome guy to bump into him on his way to the couch.

"Hey watch where you're-" The guy said before cutting himself off. His eye's met Stiles and a smile graced his face. A tattoo poked out from beneath his black tee shirt causing Stiles to wonder what it was.

"I haven't seen you at one of these before. I'm Alec by the way." He said before sticking his hand out, a red cup in the other. The smell of alcohol hit Stiles in the nose as he gripped the other boys hand.

"Stiles."

"Stiles." Alec repeated as if tasting his name. "That's different."

Stiles nodded as he watched the other boy bring the cup to his lips for a drink.

"Yeah it's a nickname." Stiles replied, eyes still glued to the plump lips in front of him.

"Stiles." He said again. "I like it."

"I'm glad that I have your approval." Stile sassed before he could stop himself.

Taking a deep breath to calm his nerves, he raked his fingers through his hair. Why was he being so rude in such a short amount of time? It must be a new record, even for Stiles.

Alec on the other hand smiled even wider. "Who is this Stiles kid?" He wondered taking another sip of his drink.

The two stood for a few seconds longer before either of them spoke up. "How are you enjoying the party?" Alec asked.

The pounding of the next songs base kicked in just as Stiles was about to speak. If he was going to be honest, he hated parties. They were just filled with drunk teenagers who would probably get themselves killed by the end of the night. He only came tonight because he cared about Lydia's opinion, and because he was ignoring one very grumpy twenty-five-year-old.

"I'm not." Stiles said before explaining how he felt leaving out the bit about Derek Hale. "I feel bad for the guy that through this party though. Even though I'm not enjoying it I wouldn't want to be him. People are totally trashing his house and I even think someone puked in the drive way. If I can find the guy I might even offer to help clean up after words if he isn't to trashed himself."

"Someone puked in the drive way?" Alec asked his voice taking on a strange note to which Stiles nodded.

"It's kinda gnarly."

"Oh god." Alec moaned wiping a hand down his face.

"Yeah like I said wouldn't want to be that guy." Stiles noticed the way Alec shot him a glare before shaking his head and smiling again.

"Yeah, me neither."

The pair began to talk about everything and anything in between, no topic was off limits. Stiles told him about how his mom past a few years back and how his dad was the Sheriff of a few towns over. They talked about Lydia, and how she is honestly so hot but terrifying at the same time. Alec told Stiles about his little brother Max passing away last year and his adoptive brother Jace who was totally around here somewhere. They talked about Izzy and how she got all the hot genes, something that Stiles wouldn't believe until he saw proof, and about how Alec's parents were off on business quite a bit. They even somehow started talking about Derek Hale and how he and Stiles were no longer a thing, part of the reason Stiles was forced out tonight.

"It's alright. Uh Magnus Bane, do you know him?" With a dismissive shake of the head Alec continued. "Well we were sort of a thing to so I know what you mean when you say you needed to get out."

The pair didn't stop there.

"What do you mean you have never seen Star Wars? It's like a national treasure! It's more important to this county then the next president. No this can't stand, next Friday you are making popcorn and I am coming to your house with the best movies seriously ever and were watching them."

"Stiles you've never had tres leche cake? That's insane, I'll have to make you some. Izzy absolutely loves it I swear it's great."

"Alec no you can't think that Bateman stands a chance against Superman. No, this totally makes you less hot, stop."

"Stiles, Stiles slow down I can hardly understand you."

"Pepsi is so much better than coke shut up."

The night was still long, and Stiles no longer regretted coming to this totally trash party because of Alec. The boys had positioned themselves against a wall, seeing as the couch was occupied. Stiles repeatedly pushed himself from the wall to emphasis his ever-changing points and Alec regarded his spastic actions with a smile. The two were content in their little bubble until Lydia popped it.

"Stiles there you are!" Lydia yelled over the music grabbing Stiles by the wrist. "I lost you forever ago, but I see you've been in good hands. Nice party by the way Alec."

"Nice party?"

A nervous chuckle escaped Alec's lips. "If I remember correctly you said you'd help clean up?"

[lovemalecforever]

Chapter 12

Family isn't always blood

Alec looked at his Parabatai then to his sister then to him again and sighed heavily before speaking. "Because there is something I want to talk about which needs all of your presence."

"Excuse me!?" Jace exclaimed, "Alec, I can feel your nervousness, what is going on? You're making me scared buddy, we almost lost yo-"

"Jace, calm down. I'll tell you when everyone will be here, and it's nothing bad, okay?"

Even after the reassurance, Jace was still not convinced. He could feel how scared and nervous Alec was through their bond. There were so many probabilities running through his mind, minding that Magnus wasn't there with him when that man never leaves his brother alone.

"Jace, stop. I can literally feel you getting stressed up, I told you, Jace, it's nothing, just... wait for a while."

Jace sighed and nodded. He had met his Parabatai, his brother after a long time, and making him upset or angry was the last thing he wanted. "Sorry Alec, but really, you told Izzy that you're coming but not me? Seriously? Am I not important to you anymore?" he dramatically put his hand over his chest. "You have hurt me, dude."

Alec rolled his eyes. "Stop being overdramatic, Jace. Besides, the look on your face told me that it was worth it."

"Boyzzz!" Izzy interrupted, shaking her head at her brothers for their silliness. "So, big brother, whom do you want to meet first, Clary or Simon?" Out of everyone, Izzy knew really well that Alec considers them family now, remembering the fact that he admitted it when she and Simon visited him.

"It's been long I've seen nugget in training mode. I would like to see her training and meanwhile, tell Simon to come here, I want to talk to you both privately before talking to everyone else."

"What the hell!? Alec, First, stop giving my girlfriend these stupid nicknames, and second what are you guys are up to?"

"Jace, stop." Izzy spoke firmly, "Don't bombard our brother with questions, he just arrived. And, besides, I want to see how Clary's doing so can we move now?"

"Fine, let's go." Jace sighed, and they left for the training room.

While heading towards the training room, Alec didn't miss the changes that had been made at the Institute, especially the weapons room. He knew he made the right decision to make his sister the Head of the Institute when he accepted the post of Inquisitor at Alicante, and she's doing a brilliant job. He couldn't help but feel proud of his sister.

It's been around an hour since Clary started her training, her hair was tied up in a ponytail, she was wearing a perfectly fitted navy blue sports bra with red stripes on it, the back having cross straps with blue-grey yoga pants and red and blue colored sports shoes. Her hands were wrapped in boxing bandages, blowing punches and kicks to the punching bag, which had now started to tear.

"Slow down Parabatai, looks like you're having a bad day, or did you not get it last night, huh?" Izzy teased as she walked towards her soon-to-be Parabatai, a smirk playing on her face, and Jace's face flushed.

"Izzy, Hey!" Clary greeted then held the towel that Izzy offered her. "And to answer your question, both. Bad day because Jace was being an idiot last night, and this morning too." She said, making Izzy burst into laughter.

"Really Clary, discussing our sex life with my sister!? Not appreciated!" Jace said as he walked in.

"She's my best friend, Herondale. I can discuss whatever I want." Clary shrugged and snatched the water bottle that he offered her.

"Oops! Looks like someone screwed up badly." Izzy said while suppressing her laugh, earning a glare from Jace.

Clary almost choked on the water she was drinking and dropped the bottle on the floor in the process when her eyes fell on the third person present in that room, standing by the door frame.

"ALEC!"

"Hello, Carrot!" Alec walked in and laughed when she literally jumped on him. "Get down, carrot, you're drenched in sweat."

"Really! Carrot, Carrot!? Seriously, Alec, I told you to stop giving her names, don't you-"

"I find it cute," Clary said, interrupting her boyfriend and making him dumbfounded. "Alec, when did you come? And where's Magnus?" She asked when her excitement died down and was back on her feet.

"Just now, and Magnus didn't come, I had some work."

"Okay, now I'm jealous, what had Simon done, big brother? Jace? Why do you both treat him like that?" Izzy pouted.

"I like him, but that vampire gets under my skin sometimes. No offense, Izzy." Jace said flatly.

"Izzy, Simon had done nothing, you know I like him, I just don't feel like being like that around him. There's nothing else." Alec reassured, making her sigh.

Izzy's phone buzzed, breaking their chain of conversation. She picked it up to check the message. "It's Si, he'll be here in some time. Your room or my office?" She asked.

"In my room," Alec answered while Jace and Clary kept glancing between the siblings. "I'll tell you both later."

Clary nodded. "I'm going to get a shower, see you later, Alec." With that, she picked up her stuff and left the hall.

"Wait, Clary! Excuse me!" Jace said hurried after his girlfriend leaving the other two laughing at their situation.

"It's good to have her back, you know," Izzy said when they both left the room. "Jace is a different person now, and happier too."

"I know. I can feel it. I'm happy for him, he deserves this. Looking back at how broken he was 3 years ago, I'm really happy that Clary got her memories back. They didn't deserve what happened 5 years ago."

"What's wrong!?" She asked when she noticed an unknown expression clouding her brother's face.

"Izzy, promise me you won't tell Jace what I'm about to say, else I won't hear the end of it."

Izzy raised her brow but eventually nodded.

"You know how much I used to hate Clary when she first came into our lives, she's still annoying, but looking at her now, at them, they are meant for each other, they complete each other. And I'm really happy that they found each other, all over again." He said, having a bright smile on his face.

"You're right, big brother. Jace will never stop teasing you if he'll hear what you just said. And, I agree, they are meant for each other."

Clary came back to their lives almost two and a half years ago. It took her almost a year and a half after meeting Jace at her painting exhibition to regain her memories of the shadow world. When she remembered Jace at the alley of the building where her exhibition was held, Jace frequented their meetings in the hope that she'd remember everything but hid it from everyone else. That was until Simon found out and confronted him, in the process bumping into her becoming the second person she remembered.

Clary always had an empty space in her heart, a void, which kept telling her that something was missing. That was until she met Jace, and she knew that she knew him from somewhere. There were bits and pieces in her mind of a club, bike riding, or some similar events, but they were never complete.

When both boys told everyone about Clary, it was Magnus who advised them to take things slow and not rush her memories. She met everyone, remembered them one by one, Luke being the third one, then Jocelyn, followed by the incomplete memory of her death, which resulted in regaining her memories at a great pace.

What broke the floodgates of her memories was when Jace and Clary were returning from their date, and they were attacked by a shapeshifting demon, which Clary killed with complete ease, shocked at first, but the sudden appearance and disappearance of her runes made her remember that she's a Shadowhunter.

The most beautiful thing which happened between all this was Clary fell in love with Jace all over again, oblivious about their past and Jace's feelings, making him the happiest person in the universe.

When she remembered everything, and stepped into the institute once again, and got all her runes back, she was visited by her mother's soul once again telling her that the Angels had forgiven her, she still has her extra share of powers, but she needs to be careful this time and not repeat the mistakes she made in the past. From that time on she became a completely new person. Better than before, more fierce, stronger, but still stubborn, annoying, and irritating at times.

The most epic thing to happen was Alec and Clary's relationship. From hating each other to frenemies to friends to a weird brother-sister relationship, they came a long way. The bitter comments Alec used to make about her were now more of teasing and mocking in a good way. They had started understanding each other, making everyone around them shocked with their bonding.

***************************

Simon was already pacing in Alec's room when Izzy and Alec entered, making Alec sigh out of frustration. "Stop digging holes in my carpet, Lewis," Alec commented.

"Really!?"

"Boys!" Izzy shook her head. "I can't with you people!" She mumbled, then turned towards her brother. "So, what did you find Alec?"

"Everything!" He answered and explained to them the complete process of becoming immortal. When he was done both of their faces were filled with shock and astonishment.

"So, you have to drink Fray's blood and ask her to talk to Angel Ithuriel on your behalf, that's... interesting. Do you think she'll agree?" Simon asked curiously.

"That we'll see. Are you both okay with this?" Alec asked hesitantly.

Simon and Izzy exchanged a look. "Of course we are, big brother. I'm really happy for you." She hugged her brother tightly. Alec looked at Simon who nodded and smiled at him, he smiled back and mouthed thank you to him.

They broke their hug and Alec sighed with relief. "I'm glad to have your support, but, Izzy, I need advice, I'm confused."

"What is it?"

"Should I wait for everyone to arrive and talk to them tonight altogether, or I'll talk to everyone privately? I don't know how everyone's gonna react, especially Jace and Clary."

Izzy didn't know what to say to that. She looked at Simon than at her brother, trying to form words when Simon broke the silence.

"Um... I don't know what you think, Iz, but I think you should talk to everyone privately, talking to everyone at the same time would mean too many emotions in one place when you don't know how will everyone react which can become uneasy for you. But it's completely up to you." He said carefully.

"I think you're right Simon, thank you. It might take time, but I'll get a fair amount of time with everyone. And I think I'm going to make Jace and Clary wait for the last." He said with a chuckle.

"Now, Izzy, till the time mom and Luke arrive, why don't you and Clary show me what I've asked for!?" He asked with a wide smile.

Simon had a confused expression from his question, making Alec chuckle with the realization that neither of the women had told anyone about the gifts he had asked them to help him make for Magnus.

"Come on then, big brother. It's in Clary's room." She wrapped her arm around her brother's, dropped the silencing rune, and walked towards Jace and Clary's shared room. When they were near their room they heard loud arguments coming from their room making them exchange looks.

"Can we come in Fray? Or are you both going to continue with whatever you were arguing about?" Simon asked while suppressing his laugh, earning a flying pillow from Clary, which he dodged successfully, making Alec and Izzy burst with laughter, and Jace completely embarrassed.

"Are you people done?" Alec asked.

Clary cleared her throat and steadied herself. "Yeah, come in."

"Are you still working on it, or is it completed? Alec wants to see it." Izzy said the excitement was clearly visible in her voice.

"Oh, are you sure Alec? It's not completed yet."

"Completed or not, I want to see both of your's!"

"Okay, it's in my art room."

"Art room?" "What the hell is going on!?" Alec and Jace said at the same time.

Jace was carefully listening to their conversation, making a frown appear on his forehead. He looked at Simon who was mirroring his confused expressions, but no one else, making his nerves rise.

Alec sighed. "Izzy and Clary, may I know why you both kept it hidden from them?" He waved towards Simon and Jace.

"We thought it would be nice to surprise them too, we want to see their expressions when it's done," Izzy said.

Jace and Simon exchanged a look, Jace was about to say something when Alec raised his hand to shut him up. He shook his head in disbelief. "I didn't get my answer, Art room?"

"Oh, my old room, now that I share the room with Jace, I converted that to my personal Art room. Are you really sure, Alec?"

"Yes, and anyways I want it completed before I leave for Alicante."

"Are you sure, big brother? Will you be able to hide from Magnus for that long?" Izzy raised her brow at him.

"Alec, if this makes you relieved, I got permission from Angels to use the portal rune as a permanent rune for me, and anyways I and Izzy are gonna portal to the lakeside to complete all the decorations you've asked for. You can meet us there and take the gifts from us." Clary said.

Alec looked at Clary in disbelief. "You got permission? That's something. Okay then, take your time, but it should be completed by Wednesday."

"We're almost done, big brother. Don't worry!"

*************

They all walked towards Clary's Art room, Alec was way too excited to see what they've done. Clary opens the door, which was filled with the scent of fresh colors, different shapes of brushes were spread in the whole room and a bunch of them were kept in a pen stand with several watercolor bottles and charcoal pencils on a wooden table in the corner of the room. There were different shapes of canvases filled in the whole room.

Clary went forward and removed a red-colored cloth that was covering a medium-sized canvas, only to reveal 3 frame-sized paintings pinned on the canvas, the 4th one was ongoing and one was empty. Alec's jaw fell on the ground seeing them.

"You... you're painting them!?"

"You like it?" Clary asked nervously, biting her nails, and looked at Izzy.

Alec went forward and traced his fingers over the painting of their wedding, both in tuxedos, holding hands, a look of pure happiness on their faces. "Put this in the center, and frame them properly. Magnus is going to love it. And I do too. Thank you, redhead!"

Clary sighed with relief and nodded with a warm smile.

"What the he-"

"Wow, these are beautiful Fray, so that's not the only surprise you're planning for Magnus? It's so lovely!"

"Yes, there's more Simon. I told you and Izzy alre-"

"What is going on!? And why am I the only one who doesn't know anything!?" Jace yelled.

Alec sighed for the billionth time that day. "Jace, are you really not getting it, or are you seriously not remembering!?"

Every eyes were on Jace now. "Remember wha... oh shit!" He gulped when he realized the paintings were from Alec's wedding to all of their following anniversaries. And it's his brother's anniversary next week.

"Sorry, Alec. I forgot about your anniversary. So, that's why Magnus is not here, you're planning a surprise, huh?" He said teasingly knowing that his brother is bad with surprises.

Alec rolled his eyes and smacked Jace on the back of his head, earning a whiney 'Ow' from him while others burst into laughter. "So, Izzy!?"

"It's in the weapons room, come on!"

*********************

They were all in the weapons room, Izzy had vacated the room for some time, and they were the only five present there. She went towards the right side rack, opened the second last drawer and took out a black-colored box, and walked towards the center table where everyone was standing.

"Big brother, it's yet to be completed. The whole engraving is remaining, you sure!?"

"Engraving?" Others said in unison.

"Yes, Izzy! Just show me whatever is done!"

Izzy opened the box to reveal a set of 3 diamond rings, sitting on fake fingers, two on the base and one in the middle of the finger, each connected with silver chains having tiny emeralds covering the whole chain. It was a really beautiful ring. There was a bundle of diamond cuts sitting on the base of the box.

Everyone's jaws were dropped on the floor. The ring was shining brightly in the dullness of the room.

"Why extra diamonds?" Clary asked curiously.

"These are going to be fixed on the engraving. Alec, thoughts?" She asked, her voice filled with nervousness and excitement.

"Wow! I... I'm speechless. You did a great job, Izzy. Magnus is definitely going to fall in love with it."

"I already am," Clary confessed. Her eyes were shining with the lights the diamond ring was emitting.

"I didn't know my girlfriend was this talented!" Simon said. He and Jace were completely dumbfounded.

They all got out of their trance with a loud squeal Izzy made, way too excited and proud of her work. They all exchanged a look and shook their heads at her.

Before Izzy could say, her phone buzzed and her expressions went from excited to soft.

"What?" Alec asked.

"Mom and Luke are here, you're ready, Alec?"

Alec sighed. "Let's get this over with!"

[fictionalrambles]

Shadowhunters Fandom Story - Part Fifteen

Submitted by jwrites_

Five Favourite Fics:

1. What's It Gonna Be by @lemonoclefox

Why I love this fic: I'm a sucker for Pride & Prejudice. San was able to take that dynamic and put it all in a modern day telling of it. I can't count how many times I've read this. Sometimes I read it all the way through, other times I go and find my favorite parts just to get that rush of emotions it never fails to give. The enemies to lovers is done perfectly, the dialogue is great and flows seamlessly, the way she tied in the storyline between Simon, Isabelle, Valentine, and Alec together was genius. I truly love every word of this story.

Favorite scene: Awkward - love - confession - in -  the -  rain

Favorite quote(s):

(Yes. Love confessions are great but have you ever overheard someone say something rude about you and then have the opportunity later that same night to be able to casually call that person out for their comment?)

"Her friend is..." He trails off, as though searching for the word, and Magnus can imagine him gesturing in the meantime. "Interesting," Jace eventually settles on, pointedly.

"Who, that Bane guy?" Alec says, and as he does, Magnus is hit with a wave of intrigued surprise. Does Alec like men? Interesting. The assumption could be wrong, of course, but Jace's tone implies that that's why he's mentioning it. "He's a bit over the top, don't you think?"

He sounds almost disdainful as he says it, as though Jace's mere suggestion is laughable, and Magnus's intrigue immediately shifts to offended annoyance. He straightens a little where he stands, reluctantly affected by it.

--

"I mean, love songs are great," Magnus admits lightly. "But stringing a few pretty words together does seem a bit unoriginal when everyone does it."

Simon shoves him lightly in offense, and Magnus can't help but laugh.

"Then what do you suggest?" Magnus is taken completely by surprise when he realizes that it's Alec who's speaking, and he turns to him. The guy's expression is neutral, but seems genuinely curious.

"Oh, I don't know," Magnus says, swirling his drink around in his glass. He shrugs. "I suppose I'm more a fan of showing and not telling. I'd much prefer someone showing interest in what I like and who I am, than comparing my eyes to the night sky, and whatnot." He gestures airily, then hesitates. He suddenly can't seem to stop himself, the memory of the Lightwoods' overheard conversation bubbling to the surface. "I think most people can appreciate that. Even if some of us are a bit over the top."

--Okay...I'm gonna go ahead and throw in a love confession~

"Look, I don't expect anything from you," he says, as though the words are hard to say. "You've made your feelings pretty clear, and I respect that. But I heard you talked to my mom, and with the stuff you said to her... I guess it just kind of made me a bit hopeful, or something. A bit." He clears his throat, while Magnus just listens. He turns to watch Alec's profile as the young man struggles to find the words, eyes on the view in front of him. "Either way, I'll admit that how I feel hasn't really changed. Maybe it should have, but..."

Alec shakes his head, and Magnus feels his throat go dry. He wants to interrupt Alec, wants to say and show everything that's bursting out of his chest, but he waits. Alec takes a deep breath then, turns to him. He looks determined.

"If you want me to," he says steadily, "I'll go. I'll leave you alone, I promise. You won't hear from me again." He pauses, licks his lips. "But if you don't want me to, if something has changed since last time, somehow... I'd really like to know. Because that would be pretty great."

2. 42 North 71 West by @lecrit​

Why I love this fic: I was blessed with the opportunity to witness Lu working on this fic from its conception to its end. I was there and still I am blown away at the way she was able to work the time jumps. I remember thinking with every chapter I read, 'Wow. The way she is telling this story is amazing. She is amazing.' Lu has a way of presenting so much honesty in her characters. She writes them in a way that feels so real, that you can't help but understand their fears and hesitations even though it hurts. The story is a back and forth told through scenes set in the past and present. You get to see what they were and where they are. The story is beautifully heartbreaking. And she was able to make me enjoy a story that dealt with politics? What? Sorcery, I tell you. -- also, the bench.

Favorite scene: This was almost impossible to choose and I took way too long trying to pinpoint just one. But I'm going to go with one that I hold very dear. When Magnus goes to visit Alec on his birthday and he finds Alec playing the song he only plays when he's sad. That's all I'm going to say because I don't want to spoil~

Favorite quote(s):

“Magnus,” Alec breathes out.

The name feels almost foreign, as if he hadn’t uttered it in too long and now his mind is troubling to catch up with his mouth. Still, it manages to make Alec’s heart stutter.

--

“We should’ve stayed on that bench in Boston,” he murmurs.

--

The good thing is, he knows where to go to find his way back. It is inked on his body, engraved into his soul, sealed into his heart.

3. Lead The Way by Clockworkswan

Why I love this fic: Because it takes the wonderful adventure of Doctor Who and packs it in with Malec. This is the ultimate fun and feel good but you will also cry at one point fic. I always go back to it if I want a wonderfully written Doctor Magnus and his adorable companion Alec. Seriously, even if you're not into Doctor Who, give this fic a shot. It's written in a way that you will get so caught up in the adventure that you won't even realize it's based on something else. And if you're a Doctor Who fan, you're in luck with all the little Easter Eggs Heather left throughout.

Favorite scene: I really don't want to spoil anything. The planet of Ablorix. This will mean nothing if you don't read the fic (so you should ;])

Favorite quote(s):

Magnus extends a hand. It’s just like before, when they were in the hallway a couple of weeks ago. It’s just as inviting as it was the first time.

“How about it, pretty boy? Name a star. Any one will do. Or a date,” Magnus says. The double meaning is evident when he winks. He pauses then, and his expression shifts, growing solemn.

A clear shift in his demeanour happens. Magnus turns from playful to sincere in the blink of an eye. Although, there was also a serious tone to it. Magnus looks at him, and understanding eyes meet Alec’s hesitant ones. “Alexander, you seem like a man in need of a break, and I am very much a man in need of a friend. Adventures are always a quick way in figuring out what you want. What do you say?”

What does he say?

He says yes.

Of course Alec does.

--

Before Magnus can think of a good retort, he tries to ignore the clenching ache his stomach gives at the sight of a confident, smirking Alec Lightwood watching him so openly. He settles for pointing in a random direction. “I have to go and see a dog about a man. Meet back here in five?”

“Uh, isn’t the expression, ‘see a man about a dog’?”

“Not when the dog ran off with the man’s wife. A rather big scandal, it seems. The president wants me to try and step in. Smooth things over, so to speak.”

At that, Alec just stares blankly.

Magnus holds up a finger. “Yes, this is normal for me. No, you may not come along. Go.”

4. Love & Other Drugs prequel of Our Love Is A Harsh Chord in the Semi-charmed Kind Life series by @la-muerta​

Why I love this fic: I'm kind of cheating here by listing two fics but they're a package deal. Love & Other Drugs was a smutty one-shot that left me wanting

more...

backstory. Let me tell you the pining and 'unrequited' love between those two demanded a story to be written. Which is why when la_muerta ran a poll on whether or not she should start it or another series first, I campaigned for this one like it was my job (I lost but I still got the series eventually so did I really lose?) The writing in this and with all of la_muerta's fics will hook you. The sadness over the back and forth between them is done so well. It's angst that will grip you and hold onto you until you eventually finish. Just go on the twitter hashtag of #OLIAHCfic and see my screaming.

Favorite scene: Probably the LSD scene.

Favorite quote(s):

Alec was still here, in bed with him.

How many times had Magnus wished that he could wake up with Alec in his arms? He didn't dare to move, wanting the dream to last a little longer, but Alec was already stirring.

--

he'll wonder if life would be a little easier if he wasn't hopelessly in love with Magnus, but it is a fact of who he is now: Alec Lightwood is 6'3, has dark hair, is gay, and is in love with Magnus Bane.

--

They are lying next to each other now, turned on their sides and face to face. The world is no longer warped and weird, but glowing and perfect. Magnus is tracing a path of lightning down Alec's body with his fingertips, and in a moment of clarity Alec understands that in Magnus' eyes he is as beautiful as he thinks Magnus is (it is the first thing Alec forgets when he wakes up sober later).

--

Words aren't enough to express how he feels, but they've always understood each other better when clumsy words don't get in the way.

5. The Lonely Hearts Hotline by @unrestrainedlyexcessive​

Why I love this fic: It's funny, it's endearing, it's heart wrenching, it's sexy, etc. The way Alec is written in this fic is one of my favorite characterizations. The way his situation can resonate with so many young adults today. That feeling when you're an adult and you feel like you should know what to do with your life and who you should be but the truth is, you're still just as lost as always. Being an adult sucks tbh and even when you're an adult, sometimes life doesn't quite feel like it. Alec's character and growth in this fic is beautiful. (I also really loved Jace in this fic)

Favorite scene: A tough choice. Probably the office party and follow up scene in Magnus' office.

Favorite quote(s):

The problem with being a new grad, in general, is that the world and job force demands you have experience, but you have to live a certain number of productive years on the planet to gain that experience.

Early adulthood is no man's land. You don’t have the experience to matter and no one wants to pay you to gain it, hence how he ended up in the precarious situation he’s in: dodgy sex work by night, an even dodgier roommate, and desperately hoping an internship eventually turns into an actual paying job.

--

Magnus runs his tongue down the knobs of Alec's spine. "You're so beautiful," he says, pausing.

"I'm really not," Alec insists, eyes fluttering closed.

"Why are you so kind to everyone except yourself?"

"I'm a work in progress."

"Aren't we all?"

[darth-rainbow]

A Jace x Maia one shot post hook up

"It's that bartender isn't it? The beautiful one?"

"It's nothing serious."

Sure, it might be 'nothing serious' and yet, Jace stood at the entrance of Hunter's Moon, desperately seeking for a single person : Maia. She'd said it meant nothing too. But, really, you can't share the sort of moment they did and not feel something for someone. Jace, felt something for her. It was foreign, and new, and an amber compared to the brasero that had been his love for Clary. Ever consuming, but always burning bright.

Being with Maia, not as a lover, but as friend, had been incredibly entertaining. She was challenging in ways few bothered to be with him. She would bite back, always. And not just a nip, nope. Maia was deadly, powerful, intelligent. If she wanted to bite, she went for the jugular. Jace respected that. He respected someone who respected themselves, who seemed to love themselves even. Perhaps that's what he had felt first for her : admiration. For the woman who faced everything head on, clearly scarred by life too, but still living a much brighter existence that Jace could ever.

Maia was, bright. In a way that made one remember her, even after just a glance. In a way that made it easy to conjure an image of her smile for anyone who bothered trying. In a way that drew eyes to hers. Not because she was particularly loud or attention seeking, but simply because of her energy. She had the aura of someone who knew their self worth and valued it. Not cocky, not boastful. Just aware, inhabiting her body in ways that showed a confidence earned through experience.

Jace grinned, seeing the female walk out of a backdoor and appearing behind the bar. The blond ran his fingers through his hair, before making his way to the first empty stool. "I'll have a beer." He said.

Maia rose an eyebrow, lightly tilting her head to the side. "I didn't know Shadowhunters had lunch breaks." The female simply said, pouring him the ordered drink. "Or that they drank on the job."

"It's my day off." Jace replied.

"You guys get those?" Maia asked. "Isn't saving the world a full time job? And since you spend at least a couple of hours a day just on the hair, you really shouldn't have that much free time."

"Jace scoffed. "It naturally looks that good."

"Sure." She replied with an eye roll. "I mean, if your hair care products are vegan, then maybe yes, it's all natural." The werewolf added, sliding the beer towards the blond, a satisfied smile on his lips.

"Please, like you wake up looking like that." Jace replied, taking ahold of his pint of beer.

"The difference between you and I, Jace, is that I don't pretend I do." Maia replied, before heading towards a customer who'd called for her.

Uncharacteristically, Jace stuck around, sipping on a beer that easily grew warm in his grip. He hadn't really intended to. And he didn't really know what he was expecting or awaiting for, really. She'd said it, yesterday, their stint hadn't mean anything. And yet, he was there wasn't he? At Hunter's Moon, in the middle of the day. The blond rose an eyebrow when Maia slid past the counter, a coat shrugged on her shoulders. "You leavin'?" He asked.

She chuckled, choosing to ask back : "You care?" before actually offering an answer. "Yes, I'm planning to go the library and work on an essay due soon."

Jace rose both eyebrows. "You go to college?" He instantaneously regretting his question, watching the female flinch.

"Online course." Maia gently explained.

"Cool." The blond replied, giving a small nod.

The female smiled, tentative but proud. "Cool." She echoed softly, seemingly testing the word on her tongue. "Indeed." She finally added, in acquiescence. "Huh, anyway, I gatto, gotta," They both chuckled. "Gotta go. I gotta go."

Jace nodded. "Of course, don't let me hold you back." He put five dollars on the counter. "I was on my way out too anyway." The shadowhunter added, standing up. Maia nodded, heading towards the door of the bar, Jace a couple of steps behind her.

The werewolf held the door for the shadowhunter, a perplexed expression on her features. "I know it's not exactly any of my business. But... Day drinking?" She asked. "I'm not judging or anything. It's just new." She gave a small shrug. "And though I might not be your first choice, or even in the list of the choices you'd consider, well, I don't mind listening."

Jace's eyes widened. "Oh no! It's not like that! My life isn't, well," He furrowed his brows. "My life is objectively a mess. I'm not gonna bother denying that. But no more than yesterday I promise. It's just..." The blond chuckled. "It's stupid, really."

Maia furrowed her brows, a certain confusion on her features. "What is?" She inquired, sounding genuinely concerned for a second there.

Jace rubbed the back of his neck. "I didn't, huh, I didn't come to the bar for the beer..." He replied, holding the female's gaze.

Maia blinked, confused for a couple of seconds before the realization dawned on her. "Oh." She said softly. "I..." She wet her bottom lip. "I don't really do meaningless Jace. Last night, it was..."

Maia shook her head. "I don't really know, to be honest. It was so not me..."

"But so utterly you at the same time?" Jace tentatively finished, earning himself a nod from the female. "Yeah I sorta feel the same."

"You feel?" Maia asked, frowning.

"Ouch." Jace said. "But fair. You've been acquainted with my book club after all."

Maia rose an eyebrow. "Is that what you call it? A book club?" She snorted at the euphemism. "Listen, Jace," She drew in a long breath, steeling herself for the declaration she was about to make. "I'm not Clary." Once those words were out, Maia let a short, huff-like exhale before she went on to elaborate : "And I don't want to even try to compare to her. So whatever lingering feelings you feel you have and think I can make disappear because you also happen to feel some fleeting attraction for me, just don't. Please. Spare me."

The blond opened his mouth, ready to retort before closing it, seeing the genuine hurt in the female's heart. It was odd to think, that Simon could break anyone's heart. Because he was the nice guy™. But he had, at the very least, bruised Maia's. And she was right. He still felt something for Clary. But forgetting wasn't what had drawn Jace to Maia. No. She was her own person. Interesting for reasons that had nothing to do with Jace needing to heal and everything to do with the girl's merit.

"Okay." He finally said softly. "Okay, I won't try anything. But please, don't think for a second that your only appeal would have been to help me forget Clary." He clarified. "Maia, you're too great for that. I like you, objectively, as friend, because yes we're friends, don't argue with me now." He chuckled. She grinned. "I like you because you're witty and that makes every single conversation with you funny and entertaining."

"I like you because you never asked anything from me and don't need anything from me. I like you because you respect me enough to call me out on my nonsense. I like you, because you're bright, and kind enough to lend a phone to a shady stranger who looks drenched and hopeless. And you have no idea how much that meant to me back then."

"Just like you have no idea how much it helped to talk to you about my last names changes. Nobody else really asked, or listened. But you, for some reason, you understood that I just desperately wanted a family. So maybe we shouldn't be together because in the long run it might not work out and eventually hurt each other. But I want you, no, I need you, I need you to know, that I would have been in for you. And only, for you."

"Jace," The female said softly.

"What?" The blond asked, daring to take a step closer to her.

"Kiss me." And Jace didn't need to be told twice, his lips just naturally found hers. There was a pull, really. Something magnetic. And yes, they could've pushed each other away, but for some reason, at that very moment, it wasn't friction, but attraction.

[lilyevansreyjakku]

Evermore

A reylo Victorian short story.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Warning it's long very long it's a feed back of Ben's past .

Hope y'all like it !forgive my spelling errors.

@michellestarswept @bellaren18 @lilia-ula @atchamberlin @corariley @glitzescape @grlie-girl @infinitelyblackrose @sushigirlali @nancylovesreylo @reylocalligraphy @buffshipper8490 @bunilicious @winglessone @reyloisblessed @angelic-hellraiser @shaara-2 @lastmouseleft @xtaketwox @magicaldogs @cleverpudding @princeofdarkness15 @black-eyed-suzannah-q @bisexual-dilemmas @thebadjediandthegoodsith @leofgyth @ohsnapcrackle @pandoraspocksao3 @reyloarmy @emrys-girlwithasaber @nite0wl29 @generaloftheneworder @reydarcy @empressdarkren @rakefiree @hotty-toddy-rebel-force @adamdoingthings @rebelrebelreylo @usethehorseluke

For those who haven't read part one of this story please do check out in the likin below 👇

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Ben solo left home at the age of 15 years old after the incident with his uncle and his differences with his father . Ben discovers the dark secret that his mother had hidden from him all these years , In anger Ben  leaves his family and home , Ben join the first order under the commands of snoke . Ben goes by the name of kylo ren as well the master of the Knights of ren sending terror all around the cities and towns . after few years under the control of snoke kylo leaves the first order and goes into hiding .

later, Ben studies and  becomes a doctor who sometimes goes as volunteer in the frontline to nurse the wounded soldiers of the resistance .  one day the priest of Chandrila lor san tekka found him , the priest told him about his family and what had happened over the years . captain Han solo his father had fallen ill and his mother had aged wishing one thing that her son comes back home.

“ Ben “, the priest insisted.

“ no ! I'm not Ben here san tekka , I'm jace and no I'm not coming back home “.

“ do reconsider son your father is ill… he only has few months to live as your mother lady Leia needs you she isn't young like she was ,no doubt she is still the same strong and doesn't like to be seen old either but having your father ill has aged her and also not knowing about her son “.

Ben didn't say anything he couldn't he remembered when he use to play with his father and ran into the captain arms, he used to see Han riding his white horse falcon . Ben wanted to be like his father when he grew up .  just by thinking about it was already hurting too much .

“They lied to me !” , San tekka could hear anger in his voice but also pain.

“ I know son , I know what happened that night ! When you left but your a grown man now do leave pain and resentment aside son ! They need you do it at least for your mother who only did was to protect you from the truth! Which in the end cost her dearly she lost her son.” Ben turned to face the window the pain came back to him the memories his uncle who try to …

“ stop thinking about the past and think what is coming ahead son I have faith that you will come one day not the same no one is telling you to change but to come back to a home and find your mother who only wishes like any mother to see her son . Ben turned to say something but san tekka wasn't there anymore .

Lady Leia was looking at the window in her home in Chandrila in her husband's bedroom when one of her maids Bazine knocked .

“ my lady the priest is down stairs in the front hall waiting “.

“I'll be there in a few moments , thank you … do stay with the master while I go down stairs “ , Bazine Netal bow “Yes my lady “.

“ father san tekka !” , Leia ran to lor san tekka .

“How is he ?” Leia didn't say anything only stood silent .

“ Ben , I found him “ the priest said leia's eyes light up its was like life was given to her .

“ Ben ! My son Ben …. Where is he ? How is he ? I want see him “. Leia began to walk outside the priest stopped her .

“ my lady I didn't bring him with me he isn't a boy anymore , he is a grown man now he takes his own decisions”.

“ I want to see him , why he didn't come back ? I want to see him do tell me where is he !”.leia wanted to see her son she couldn't wait anymore .

“ you will see him again my lady just wait my lady “.

“ no ! I want to see him I want to hug him ask him so many things “.

“ I promise there will be time my lady he already knows about what's happening about Han and you “.leia just smiled and began to cry .

“ Ben “ , a breathless voice whispered in the room it was from the captain Han solo who still Delirious from a sickness “ son , don't go please !”. Leia was there doing anything,  what could she do ? The medicine didn't do anything anymore.

“ Han don't , don't use your strength “. Leia whispered to her husband while holding his hand . Lor san tekka only pray for a miracle to happen .

When one one of the maids bazine shouted ” the young master is here ! The young master is here !”  , lor san tekka went to the window and saw a young man on a black horse riding like the speed of light.

“ Ben “  leia smiled as she planted a kissed on top of her husband's hand . as Ben got off from his horse everything just stood still and silent .

Ben enter the mansion that once was his home it looked the same but old and  gloomy he walked towards the stairs when lady bazine one of the maids of the house and childhood friend she also changed beautiful indeed like always but not his taste.

“ sir “ , bazine bow to Ben who she hasn't seen in years , he looked handsome like the first day she came to the mansion with her father ,If only he knew .

“Bazine how are ?” , bazine smiled she felt excited to have him here in front of her  .

“Very well sir , may I take to your father's bedroom “.

“ Yes , please “ Ben follow her down the hall even thought it was day , a little bit of rey of light peak through the curtains.

Leia stood up Ben her son was here in front of her after 15 years, she slowly got up still not believing that her son was here in the room .leia took her son's face in her hand and caressed his cheek “ Ben ,my Ben “. Ben just stood there his mother was very old she doesn't look the same as the day he left her nor his father who now was dieing in his bed.

“ Ben, you came !” Leia embrace her son she didn't care if her son didn't love her ,  she was full of joy that her son was here after 15 years.

“ come “ , Leia pulled her son as they took few steps closer to Han's bed . lor san tekka study every step Ben  took , he knew that none of this was easy for the boy he just came back after so long and found his parents not the same older mother who had gone through difficult times and a father dying in his bed .  Ben didn't say anything not a word just shock and confusion was written all over the poor boy face’s .

The priest walked closer where Han was , he wasn't anymore the brave captain Ben knew once there was a old man dying in pain but stubborn to stay a little bit longer.

“ Han, your son is here , he came to see you“, lor san tekka whispered  Han just moan softly.

“ Ben” , it came out like a gasp of air. “My son is here ? Tell him to come “ . Leia pulled her son closer.

“ son , please do forgive me if I ever hurted you or treated you unfair . I was just protecting you from all…. pain son but seems  I was the one who was causing you pain .” Han cough and cough Leia whipped the sweat from Han's forehead .

“ take care of your mother and forgive her son “  han took his last breath he died peacefully leaving Leia heartbroken .

Han had left Ben as his only heir left him lands and a ranch . Ben didn't know what to do he just wanted to leave but couldn't . few days went by Han's funeral was calm and peaceful a lot of people had come from chandrila and takodana giving their consultants to his mother. He wasn't present for his father funeral he was locked in his father's office thinking what he was going to do .

Months went by Ben was preparing to go out off town leaving strict instructions to the maids to take care of his mother . "son where are you going? Please don't leave! " ,Leia panic , Ben saw this and started to explain " mother , please I'm going out no need to panic I'm going out of town I'm going through takodana and talk with the man who is in charge of the money of the business I checked the books and found something that I didn't like ."

"Just be careful son and come home ". Ben put his coat and left Leia in the stairs .

"I'll be back in the afternoon" .

Ben was walking through takodana when he saw her ..the "girl" she was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen . she was slim ,tant skin she had freckles that kissed all over her skin brown eyes which reminded of him in spring. He stopped and stare at her . she must have been around teens or older he couldn't explain the feeling he was having with this girl . The young girl notice he stare at him in confused but shyness was written all over her face . the girl panic and disappear inside the gates is this her home ? where she lived ?

Ben whispered "who are you ?" , Ben was going to find out who was this girl the one who captured his heart .

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Like always my antis and mean people no drama nor harassment no negative stuff . if it's not your type keep scrolling down and don't lose my time either . no drama✌🖤 peace .

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[livcosmos]

Lady Midnight booktalk

Oh, boy I have no idea where to start and I don't know what to say for the no-spoiler section except that this book was amazing and that you should all go read it. ( You have to read The Mortal Instruments, The Infernal Device, and The Shadowhunter Academy before you read Lady Midnight but I think you already knew that and if you have never read any of this I don't know how you can survive they are the best books.) So anyway now I am starting with the spoilers so if you haven't read it yet, read go it and come back to discuss it here with me.

SPOILER ALERT

Ok so this book like any other Cassie book, broke me. I was hysterically crying at one point, I couldn't take it anymore and this moment was when the faerie delegation came and said that Mark has broken the law and he should get 20 lashes for that. The moment they said it I knew Julian was going to take those I just knew that he would step in for his brother and I was like NOOOOO JULIAN MY BABY DON’T DO ANYTHING I KNOW YOU LOVE YOUR BROTHER AND YOU ARE KIND AND EVERYTHING BUT DON’T THAKE THE LASHES I DON’T WANT YOU TO GET HURT. But of course he didn’t listen and I immediately started crying and then when Emma felt his pain oh.... it was so sad and I was so mad at Mark ant Kieran. And when Emma went over to Julian and drew the sleeping rune on him and said “Sleep my love”  I was crying even more and then when Emma took the lashes I was still crying that scene really got to me. Cassie always knows how to make me cry. And then I stopped crying for a while but of course, Emma has to have a dream with her parents where her father plays Jem’s violin and of course, her father has to mention Jem and there you go I was crying again because every time there is something that has to do with Jem I cry. Oh and please how could I forget to mention the scene at the Parabatai party where some Parabatais are holding a speech and Jem’s runs out of the room and Tessa runs after him. Does Cassie want to kill me??? And of course, the end where Jem appears with Tessa to pick up Kit and then Jem talks with Emma, again I was crying. Jem’s makes me cry every time that boy has my heart and my soul forever. Ah, and that I mentioned Kit, first of all I don't like him and second of all I don't like the idea with the lost Herondale, I think I also mentioned this before but it is not like I don't like the Herondales I love them, Will has also stolen my heart and don't get me started on Jace, I love them both so much and this is the reason why I don't want another Herondale in the story, it’s because I love Will and Jace too much and I am very territorial and I want them to be the only Herondales but who knows maybe I will get to like Kit. Alright now back to Julian, I freaking love him I felt in love with him from the first moments and that is why it broke my heart when he got the lashes and when he suffered because Emma got the rest of the lashes and when Emma said those horrible things at the end of the book so that she can protect him. He suffered so much in his life and know he is going to suffer even more. I mean this boy has practically 4 children since he is 12 years old and besides that, he is running a flipping Institute. I know that it is not his uncle’s fault that he is the way he is but I am still mad at him and at Diana, how can you let that poor boy have so many responsibilities can someone please help him??? And what is the matter with Diana anyway why did she come to the Institute if she is not even there most of the time what is she hiding? But back to Julian, it breaks my heart to see him so hurt and I am so scared to see how he is going to react on that whole Mark and Emma thing it will destroy him. (I was crying at that part too when Emma told him she doesn't love him and that she and Mark... oh...). I finished the book last night at 4 a.m please imagine how I felt, I felt like I was going crazy. After I finished the book I had to watch polandbanansbooks video on this book because I love her and her videos and I always watch her book talks. And she said something that really scared me, that I didn't even realize until she said it. She said that Julian risks to go a really dark path because he already has this darkness in him and that everything can go very dark for him after he sees Emma with Mark and everything. And I think she is right I am afraid that Julian is not going to be ok and I don't want that for him because I love him. I am very curious about what is going to happen in Lord of Shadows I can’t wait to start it. And what is going to happen between Julian and Emma how can we break the Parabatai bound, I intuited that Parabatai are not allowed to fall in love with each other because then they are going to be too powerful and I was right and I have now some theories of how the bound is going to break but I just want Julian and Emma to be together they have to find a way to break the bound and be together. AHH and Mark:” Emma why pretend?”, yes Emma why pretend???, I was so mad oh boy and I still am...like how dare you Mark how dare you? I am also afraid Christina is going to be heartbroken when she sees the Mark and Emma thing and I don't want her to be heartbroken ether I like her and I don't want her friendship with Emma to get destroyed by that story because let's be serious she does not love Diego anymore she is in love with Mark and I ship her with Mark and she is not going to react well on the Mark and Emma thing. Have I mentioned that I don't like Kirean, whel I don’t like him and I want him to stay away from Mark and Christina. And I also wanted to say that I love Livvy, I love the way she is and how she loves her twin brother. Ah and Tavvy is so sweet, I love him too. I have just realized that I haven't spoken about Malcolm so let's say I wasn't surprised that he was the murderer (I got spoilered back when I was reading City of Heavenly Fire that he is the murderer) but anyway I found the story very interesting, I mean like how the murderers where committed and this whole mystery, I always love a good murder mystery. And I must say I somehow feel sorry for him because he lost the love of his life and I totally understand why he wants to bring her back but that doesn't justify what he has done and what he did is definitely wrong. And like Christine from polandbananasbooks said he may be still alive, he is a warlock after all. And now that Annabel is alive I think there are two possibilities, one is that she wants revenge and blood because of what her family has done to her or two that she is actually a nice lovely person. But I think the first option is more likely. I am not sure if I said everything I wanted but I think I said everything, oh no wait I forgot to say that I love Emma and that she reminds me of Jace. I love her jokes and the way she is. And I was so excited when I heard that Clary and Jace run now the New York Institute and that Simon and Izzy got engaged ah... that is so lovely even though somewhere in my brain I still picture them as 16 years old and it is a little weird to see them so grown up. And of course omg how could I forget that so, I also read that Cassie is planning to publish two more series one with Tessa’s and Will’s children and the other one with Ty, Dru and the rest, I think the one with Ty it's named The Wicked Powers and I have read that this is going to be her last Shadowhunter series and that in that book the Shadowhunter World is going to change forever. AND I AM AFRAID. What does that mean? Are they all gonna die? I don't want this all to be over, this thought is scaring me so much. What is going to happen??? I AM SCARED!!! And I am afraid I won't be able to read this series because of that, I don't want all to end and change. I also think that I won't be able to read the series with Tessa’s children because it is going to hurt me so much. But until all those books come out I still have to finish this amazing series and as I said I am excited to continue to read because I love it. If you are still reading this endless post, thank you you are amazing!!! Please discuss this book with me, write some comments with your thoughts I can’t wait to see what you are thinking but please no spoiler on Lord of Shadows and Queen of Air and Darkness.

[scrumptiousdiary]

A MOTHER'S LOVE

PROLOUGE

Luna’s walking to go inside their house, but suddenly stopped when she heard her mother, Mildred, talking to a woman who’s voice is not familiar to her, so she put her ears to the door and listened.

“So, how’s luna?” the woman with an unfamiliar voice said.

“Hmm’ she’s okay. She’s a very good and kind daughter.” Her mother, Mildred, said.

“I hope she”ll accept me…” the woman said in a sad voice.

“Ofcourse! She’ll accept you!” Mildred said.

“But for now, please, don’t shock her, okay? She still doesn’t know anything.” Mildred added.

After hearing those conversation, Luna enters their house with a confuse look in her face.

“What’s with the thing I still didn’t know, mom?” she ask to Mildred.

Mildred and the woman stoop up in shock when Luna suddenly enter the house.

“What is the thing I didn’t know mom?” she ask again when Mildred did not answer her.

“A-ah, Luna, this is Yen, my college bestfriend… She’s the one that I’m telling you” Mildred answered stuttering because of nervousness.

“Oow, hi miss…” Luna greets the woman with a smile in her face and extended her hand for a handshake.

But Yen did not accept her hand, instead, she suddenly hugged her tightly.

But because of shockness, Luna slightly pushed Yen and step back.

“My child… you look so big now, and so pretty…” Yen said with a teary eyes, staring at Luna’s face

“C-child? I’m not your child miss…” Luna said in confusion then turns to Mildred whose avoiding her gaze

“U-uhm, s-sorry…” Yen said while stepping back and wiping the tears that is now rolling down her face.

Luna just stares at Yen in confusion but then started to walk to Mildred and kiss her cheeck.

“I”ll just go upstairs and change my clothes, mom.” She said and smiled to Mildred and Yen before turning her body and walked up stairs.

After waiting for luna enter her room, Mildred immediately face Yen.

“What have you done? I told you not to shock her, right?!” Mildred said to Yen, irritated.

“I-I’m sorry… I just… I got so excited to touch and hug her—” Yen said lowering her head and sat down slowly on the sofa.

Mildred suddenly felt sorry for her friend, so, she came over and sat down beside Yen, and hugged her.

“I’m, sorry, I got nervous for us, for you..” Mildred said comforting her bestfriend.

“It’s okay, it’s going to be okay, don’t worry, I’ll find some time and talk to her. I will help you explain everything, okay?” Mildred added

She lets go of the hug and held her friends’ face and wipes its tears.

“*Sniff* *nods* Thank you so much mildred… Thank you for everything…” Yen said

Yen stood up “I’ll get going now, please, please talk to her..” Yen said at Mildred pleadingly

“Yes,, I promise..” Mildred said while raising her right hand making Yen chuckle a little

Yen hugged her again and when she lets go, she stares for a moment at room that luna entered.

She look again at Mildred and smile sadly, and then she starts to walk slowly through the door.And Mildred watched her pitifully as she walked out the door.

CHAPTER ONE

After a week, Luna went home to their house in Laguna and found Yen again talking to her mother.

She greeted Yen and went to mildred to greet her mother and kiss her mother’s cheeck.

“I’ll just go first and change mom..” she smiled to her mom, and was about to walk away when Mildred stopped her

“Luna.. can we, talk to you?” Mildred said to her and took a glance at Yen

She look at Yen too, but Yen avoided her gaze and look in different direction.

Luna frowned in confusion and look at Mildred.

“Okay ma, but, can you let me shower and change my clothes first?” She said.

“Oh! Okay, uhm.. we will just wait for you in the kitchen..” Mildred smiled at her and watch her go up stairs

After 30 minutes, Mildred and Yen heard Luna’s footsteps coming towards the kitchen, so, they started to got nervous, and Luna saw the nervousness in their faces so, she ask them.

“What’s with that nervous faces?” She ask Mildred and Yen while frowning

They didn’t answer her question so she got pissed a little because it’s getting weird for her.

“Srsly? What are we going to talk about mom?” she ask her mother with a straight face

“Ahm, Luna.. we have something to confess to you.. but ahm, promise me that you’ll listen and lets us explain first, okay?” Mildred said to her with a nervous face

Luna began to get confused again “o-kay?” she just answered

Mildred holds her hand and caress it.

“*Sigh* Luna, i-I’m sorry, we, I-I lied to you.. I, am not your real mother. Your real mother is Yen, my bestfriend..” Mildred stopped and look at Yen who’s watching them silently and starting to get teary eyed.

Shock and confusion is visible in Luna’s face.

“W-what? What are you saying mom? *chuckles*” she let go Mildred’s hand and step back

“It’s.. true, Luna.. I am your real mother, your biological mother..” Yen said with tears rolling down her face

“But, h-how?.. why?.. mom?” she ask incredulously, as she looked back and forth at Yen and Mildred.

"It happened when we were in college, Luna.. I got, pregnant with your father while we were in second year in college.." Yen stopped and wipes her tears

Luna was so confused and wanted to ask many things but Yen continued to talk

"I couldn't fight your rights to my parents, your grandparents.. *sobs* They can't accept that I got pregnant early and was still studying.. they want me to abort my pregnancy, but I don't want to, because the moment I learned that i'm pregnant with you, that's the happiest moment our life, because you are the fruit of I and your fathers' love.. *sobs* And because I did not agree to abort you, your grandparents gave me a condition, that, after I gave birth to you, I will give you away and I will stay away from your father.. so, I chose to accept their condition to let you live *sobs* and I thought that's just what they wanted to happen but I was wrong, because after a week that I give birth to you, they took me to the U.S to live and continue my studies there, and that is the saddest and the most painful thing that happen in my life.. to leave you and your father hurt.." she stopped talking and cry

"and I thought they gave you to some orphanage or what, but thank God mildred was there and pleaded my parents to let her adopt and raise you.." Yen began to walk slowly towards her and held her hand and caress it

"I'm sorry, I was such a coward and weak back then.. I did not fight for you and for your father.. i'm *sobs* sorry.. please, please forgive me for what I had done.. for leaving you.. for being such a weak and coward mother.." Yen said to her in tears and begging

But her brain can't processed everything that Yen confessed, so she let go at the hold of Yen and began to step back and walk away

Mildred immediately approached Yen and supported her while calling her name but she ignored it and just kept running out of the house crying..

*1 Year Later

Luna is watching some movie in the living room when she heard someone knocking on their front door. She stood up and walks through the door confused.

When she opens their door, she saw her suitor, Jace, infront of her. She was shock because she didn’t expect Jace to come to their house.

“oh! Jace? What are you doing here? You didn’t tell me you’d come” she said in shock.

Jace chuckles and give her the bouquet of blue roses while saying “uhm’ your moms invites me here…” with a shy smile on his face.

She felt happy because that’s her favorite flower but comes back to her senses when she realize what he said.

“Ow, uhm, Thank you for this, uhm’ come on in and sit here, I’ll just call my moms…”

She stormed out of the living room and enters the kitchen where her mommies are…

“Mommies? What are your trips again and why did you call Jace to come here at our house?” she said to her moms who’s busy preparing to cook something.

“ow? He’s already here?” her mom Mildred said in an excited tone

“uh, Yes? And why are you excited?” she ask confused.

Her other mom , Yen, laughed, and answered her question to Mildred. Yen hold her hand and smile widely at her.

“My baby, it’s because Jace contact and ask us if we can teach him your favorite meal, and because us, as a good mothers, we are willing to teach him what he wants to learn just for you, so, we invited him for a dinner…”

She got speechless because of shock “w-what? Why?”

“*Yen sighs and squeezed her hand* My daughter, you know, we like Jace for you. But ofcourse, the decision is on you. But first, can you please call him? So we can teach him now how to cook your favorite food for our dinner?” Yen said and gave her wide smile

“Go! go! Call him.” Mildred said to her when she didn’t move

She sigh and slowly walk back to the living room to call Jace.

She shyly walks near Jace.

“u-uhm, my moms wants you in the kitchen…” she says to Jace avoiding his gaze.

Jace stands up and said “owkay…” in a nervous tone.

He gestures her to walk first, the reason why she suddenly turn back at him and walks fast back to the kitchen…

When they reach the kitchen her moms welcome Jace and hug him, and that made her frown.

Her moms starts to teach Jace to cook her favorite sweet pork adobo and she, she just watched them cook and listen to their conversation.

“we already prepare the ingredients that you will use, So, let’s start?” Mildred said.

“First, Jace, is you need to heat up the pan, and put a little bit of frying oil.” Her mom said, so, Jace did it

“next is, when the oil already heat up, you can put and fry the onion and garlic until it browned” her other mom, Yen said.

“And then, after that, put the pork and fry it with the onion and garlic…” Mildred then said

“And then next is, put a 1 cup of soy sauce and ½ cup of a vinegar. And then add some half cup too of water” Yen added

Luna looks at Jace who’s so focus on listening and doing what her mothers says to him. That made her smile but she immediately removed the smile in her face when she notice that Mildred is looking at her…

“the last but not the least is, add 1 tbsp of sugar to have a sweet taste in your pork adobo, and wait it to boil and soften the pork, and that’s it, you can serve them to your love ones…” Mildred said to Jace but mildred looks at her while saying her the last sentence and giving her a teasing smile.

Luna once again roll her ayes at Mildred that is why she laugh at her, the reason why Jace and Yen who’s now busy preparing the table look at Mildred with a confused face but her mom didn’t stop laughing that’s why she gets annoyed with her mom.

CHAPTER THREE

After they eat, she offered to wash the dishes but her mothers didn’t let her instead they said to her to go to Jace and entertain him, the reason why she’s now awkwardly sitting in the sofa opposite where Jace is sitting. She looks at Jace but immediately withdrew because he is looking at her too.

“u-uhm,,, I heard to my moms that you want to learn how to cook my favorite foods, and umh’ *ehem* t-thank you for that and for your effort…” she said to Jace awkwardly while avoiding his gaze

“Ah, yeah. Haha no need to thank me Luna. I want to do this for you. I will do everything, all the efforts because I love you…” Jace said with a soft eyes

She looks at him and smile.

“I-I’ll get going now?” Jace said while standing up. “so, you can rest early…” he added.

“oh, uhm’ ookay wait here I’ll just call my mom for you to say bye…” she said and call her mothers

After a seconds…

“you’re leaving so early Jace…” Mildred said in a sad tone and hugging Jace

“Sorry tita, I want to stay for more but I also want Luna to have some rest now, and also you two, sorry for disturbing you” Jace replied to Mildred and laugh shyly

“oh no no no! You’re not disturbing us Jace” Yen suddenly replied to Jace “we are willing to help you know!” Yen added and laugh

“comeback here tomorrow okay? We will teach you to cook other foods that luna likes” Mildred said teasingly smiled at her and winked at Jace

Jace laugh at her mother’s teasing moves and said “okay tita, I’ll comeback tomorrow after work…” Jace said and smiled at her widely

“ah yeah, thank you titas! I’ll get going now!” Jace said and bid goodbye

“Bye!” “Take care! Drive safetly!” her mothers says while waving at Jace

After bidding goodbye at Jace, her moms immediately turns and look at her with a wide and teasing smile at their faces, which is the reason why she roll her eyes at them but with a wide smile at her, for sure, blushing face…

EPILOUGE

*3 Years After

Luna slowly walked towards a tomb. And stood in front of the tomb where the name of Yen and her fathers’ were engraved.

“Hi, ma..” luna said while sitting slowly in front of the tomb

“I miss you…” she continued as she cleared the weeds out of the tomb

“How are you there? I hope you’re doing fine there with papa, please kiss him for me and say I miss him too.. and that I love him even though I didn’t had the chance to see or meet him in person…” She smiled and caress the names on the tomb

“And ma.. I’m sorry, and thank you for everything, thank you for sacrificing everything for me, we haven’t been together for a long time but, at that moment, I felt your great love for me, and that is one of the best moment of my life..” *wipes her tears* *sniffs*

“Thank you, for not giving up on me, I know I haven’t told you this and didn’t had the chance to say this when you’re still here but,” *sniffs* “I already forgave you, and I love you so… so much ma…” She said crying

“*sobs* I’m.. I’m leaving tomorrow..” she smiles sadly at the tomb

“I’m sorry.. I hope you understand.. because I don’t think I can move forward to this place anymore… when I look at every corner of our house, it reminds me of my memories with you and mommy Mildred and it’s making my heart ache…”

“That’s why, I-I’m leaving, and go to U.S, so, I think, this is my last visit for now… *sobs* but I promise, when I came back I’ll visit you immediately, and I’ll be better and happier…” She stops talking, smile at the tomb and wipes her tears

She took a glance at her wristwatch and saw the time.

“So, yeah?... I’ll get going now, ma, I still need to prepare and ready my things for tomorrow… ‘til I visit you again ma, bye… Please guide me on my new path…” Luna shed in tears..

“I love you and papa so much…” She smiles sadly and wipes her tears. She stares and caress the tomb for the last time, stood up and began to walk away from the tomb of her parents.